Causes of Intractable Epilepsy
It is still unclear what causes intractable epilepsy. Nevertheless, scientists have suggested certain theories about the possible causes:
– Neural network: Seizures may inhibit the natural antiseizure network in the body and prevent antiepilepsy drugs from targeting the right neurons.
– Pharmacokinetic: Efflux transporters, which eliminate toxic wastes from cells, may be overactive and lower levels of antiepilepsy drugs in the body.
– Gene variant: Genes associated with the transportation of antiepilepsy drugs may result in drug resistance.
– Intrinsic severity: Serious types of epilepsy tend to resist antiepilepsy drugs more.
– Target: Antiepilepsy drugs may target different receptors and pathways in the brain, which reduces the effectiveness. [4]
