Myoclonic and Atypical Absence Syndromes

Myoclonic seizure syndromes are usually treated with valproic acid; lamotrigine is approved for adjunctive use, but is commonly used as monotherapy. Clonazepam can be effective, but the high doses required cause drowsiness. Levetiracetam, topiramate, and zonisamide are also used as backup drugs in myoclonic syndromes. Felbamate has been used adjunctively with the primary drugs but has both hematotoxic and hepatotoxic potential.