Utilization of antiepileptic drugs in Israel

Purpose: The aim of the study was to identify trends in utilization of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) over time in a nation-wide population in Israel. Methods: Data on AED utilization (for all indications) for the period 2010-2014 were obtained from pharmaceutical companies that distribute AEDs in Israel. Prevalence of AED utilization was reported as defined daily doses (DDD)/1000 inhabitants/day. Results: The utilization of most AEDs included in our analysis remained stable over the study period. The greatest increases in utilization of drugs established in Israel were observed for lamotrigine (33%), oxcarbazepine (31%), and primidone (18%). Decreases in use were recorded for carbamazepine (18%) and phenobarbital (15%). Use of older AEDs appeared to be relatively high, compared with the use of newer AEDs. Conclusions: During the study period of 2010-2014, conventional AED5 remained a main treatment choice in Israel, in certain cases in contrast to current recommendations and guidelines, for reasons yet to be revealed in further research. (C) 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.