Significant Seizure Reduction and Freedom in Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures Treatment with VNS Therapy

Strategic Insights -

A recent publication in the Epilepsia journal highlights the effectiveness of VNS Therapy in reducing the frequency of generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). The 24-month data from the CORE-VNS study shows a median seizure reduction of 77% and 43% of participants reporting seizure freedom. These findings are particularly significant in the context of patients who have tried a median of six anti-seizure medications and have a high seizure burden.

Key Takeaways:

  • At 12 months, the median reduction in GTC seizure frequency was 74%, and this reduction was sustained through 24 months with a median reduction increasing to 77%.
  • Freedom from GTC seizures was reported by 37% and 43% of people at the 12- and 24-month study visits, respectively, despite people having a median 10-year duration of epilepsy.
  • Approximately half of those experiencing GTC seizures were under 18 years of age, and nearly all (94%) had no history of any other previous surgery for epilepsy.
  • GTC seizure reduction was seen early, with a median 52% reduction in GTC seizure frequency at the three-month study visit.
  • The study highlights the significant seizure burden carried by the people, many of whom are so young, in this real-world dataset.
  • Participants failed a median number of six anti-seizure medications, and had a median of four tonic-clonic seizures per month at baseline.
  • The study emphasizes the importance of providing hope for patients and their families through medical technologies, such as VNS Therapy.

Statistics:

  • 77% median seizure reduction at 24 months
  • 43% of participants reporting seizure freedom at 24 months
  • 74% median reduction in GTC seizure frequency at 12 months
  • 52% median reduction in GTC seizure frequency at three months
  • Median 10-year duration of epilepsy among participants
  • 90% of participants were under 18 years of age at the time of diagnosis
  • 94% of participants had no history of any other previous surgery for epilepsy
  • Median four tonic-clonic seizures per month at baseline
  • Median six anti-seizure medications failed by participants

Sources:

  • Suller Marti A, Verner R, Keezer M, et al. Reduction of generalized tonic-clonic seizures following vagus nerve stimulation therapy: CORE-VNS Study 24-month follow-up. Epilepsia. Published online April 1, 2025. doi:10.1111/epi.18371
  • LivaNova PLC. LivaNova Announces Publication of 24-Month Data from CORE-VNS Study. Businesswire.com, May 8, 2025.