Treatments and Outcomes
This is an exciting and hopeful time for Dravet Syndrome with much ongoing research into new medicines and treatments. However, there is currently no cure for Dravet Syndrome and, unfortunately, it is one of the epilepsy syndromes that are most resistant to epilepsy medicines.
Comprehensive testing and support is required for the multiple challenges that individuals with Dravet Syndrome and their families face. Working with your medical team to find the best treatment plan for your child or adult with Dravet Syndrome is the best way to try and achieve a good level of seizure control, whether this be through medication, dietary treatments or additional therapies.
As treatment methods improve along with the understanding of the disease, researchers expect that long-term outcomes for Dravet Syndrome will improve.
Treatments and support
Currently, treatment focuses on controlling or minimising seizures in order to reduce their impact on development and seizure-related injuries. Anti-epileptic drugs are used, but these are not always effective in people with Dravet Syndrome.
Life expectancy
Many individuals with Dravet Syndrome have a good life expectancy. However, children who develop severe disability may have problems which affect their lifespan. Sadly, children with Dravet Syndrome are at a higher risk of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP) than children with other types of epilepsy. Despite this they have an 85% chance of surviving into adulthood.
Click on the images below to find out more about current and future treatment options or download our Dravet Syndrome Family Guide.
Types of Medication
An overview of medications currently used to treat Dravet Syndrome, including a list of medications that must not be prescribed to Dravet individuals.
Emergency Medication and Protocols
Helping you to be prepared to treat your Dravet family member during times of emergency.
Ketogenic Diet
A medically prescribed diet which may be suitable for some individuals with Dravet Syndrome.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy
A treatment for epilepsy that involves a stimulator (or 'pulse generator') which is connected, inside the body, to the left vagus nerve in the neck.
Additional Therapies
An introduction to managing the other health and developmental issues that your child may have.
