Acute symptomatic seizures are potentially harmful. Recurrent post-traumatic seizures (PTS) after traumatic brain injury can negatively impact on quality of life, return to work/driving, and can even lead to death. Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) are the mainstay of treatment for patients with PTS but are associated with side effects that, if serious, can negatively impact on quality of life, cognition, and general health. Patients with acute symptomatic seizures are typically started on an AED in order to prevent seizure recurrence. The optimal duration of treatment remains unclear. MAST-DURATION will compare a long course of AED (at least 6 months) vs a shorter course (up to 3 months). MAST-PROPHYLAXIS will compare a 7-day course of AED (either levetiracetam or phenytoin) versus no AED.
MAST
MAST trial: Anti-epileptic drug use following brain injury
To assess:
1. Anti-epileptic drug (AED) prophylaxis following traumatic brain injury (MAST-PROPHYLAXIS)
2. Duration of AED treatment following post traumatic seizure(s) (MAST-DURATION)
Background/method
Chief investigator
Chief investigator
Professor Peter Hutchinson
Principal investigator
Principal investigator
Professor Tony Belli
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