Managing refractory epilepsy in a resource-limited setting

Yardi R, Radhakrishnan K, Samia P, Wilson J, Ali A. Managing Refractory Epilepsy in a Resource-Limited Setting—Doing More With Less. Epilepsy Currents. 2025;0(0). doi:10.1177/15357597251318562

Abstract

Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) disproportionately affects individuals in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), where access to affordable and effective care remains a significant challenge. Patients with DRE face high healthcare costs, inadequate access to epilepsy surgery, and limited availability of trained professionals. This review explores a multifaceted approach to managing DRE in resource-constrained settings. Key strategies include rational polypharmacy with cost-effective antiseizure medications (ASM), implementation of dietary therapies like the ketogenic diet, and cost-conscious presurgical evaluations. Enhancing emergency care systems, particularly for conditions like status epilepticus, is critical, as is the development of standardized diagnostic and treatment protocols and training programs for healthcare providers. By addressing these gaps, LMIC can improve outcomes for individuals with DRE and reduce the burden of untreated seizures on patients and healthcare systems.