Polytherapy
Pronunciation: /ˌpɒliˈθɛrəpi/
Treatment approach using multiple antiepileptic medications simultaneously to control seizures.
Full Definition
Polytherapy refers to the concurrent use of two or more antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in epilepsy management. This approach is typically employed when monotherapy fails to achieve adequate seizure control, though it increases the risk of drug interactions, side effects, and medication compliance issues. Rational polytherapy involves selecting drugs with complementary mechanisms of action and minimal pharmacokinetic interactions. The goal is to achieve synergistic therapeutic effects while minimizing adverse reactions through careful drug selection and monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'add-on therapy' which specifically refers to adding a second drug to existing treatment.
In Context
- "The patient was started on polytherapy after failing three sequential monotherapy trials." — Treatment plan
- "Rational polytherapy selection considered drug interaction profiles and complementary mechanisms." — Clinical guideline