We conducted a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and the Web of Science Core Collection databases using the keywords \'genetic generalized epilepsy\', \'antiepileptic drugs\' and \'epileptiform discharge\'. Primary human studies published in English that reported the effect of AEDs on EDs captured on electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings of at least 24 h in duration in patients with GGE were included.
Six studies published between 1984 and 2017, which reported the effect of AEDs on EDs, involving a total of 116 patients with GGE, were analyzed. Our systematic review found a tendency for AEDs to reduce ED density, frequency, cumulative duration, and burst duration in GGE. Furthermore, we found evidence that the AED-mediated reduction in ED burden was associated with improved seizure control and cognitive outcomes.
Antiepileptic drugs tend to reduce ED burden in GGE, but the significance of this association remains uncertain.