VNS Therapy is Proven Treatment Option, but Treatment Gap Remains

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One in three people with epilepsy has the type that is not well controlled with drugs, called drug-resistant epilepsy. For those people, prescribing more medicine is usually not the most effective option. In fact, research shows that if you haven't found seizure freedom after your first two drugs, there is a 95 percent chance that no drug or combination of drugs will result in seizure freedom. 

"Despite what we know about drug-resistant epilepsy, the majority of people affected by this condition will continue to be prescribed additional medications instead of being evaluated for surgery or seen in a specialized epilepsy facility," said Jason Richey, president of LivaNova's U.S. Region and general manager of the Neuromodulation Business Franchise. "This treatment gap means over one million individuals in the U.S. with undertreated epilepsy remain at risk for dangerous side effects of continued seizures, including injury, depression, memory issues and death." 

"Clinical research proves the long-term positive effects of VNS Therapy," added Richey.  "Knowing lives can be improved is what drives our work at LivaNova and our desire to bring more attention to the treatment gap during Epilepsy Awareness Month." 

The goal of VNS Therapy is to prevent seizures before they start, and stop them if they do. People treated with VNS Therapy often experience shorter, less severe seizures, as well as fewer seizures.  In addition, clinical trials have shown numerous quality of life improvements among people treated with VNS Therapy, including improved mood, alertness, and memory.  People with VNS Therapy also report gaining an average of 32 more working days per year, spending less time caring for health problems, and worrying less about seizures. 

Eighteen-year-old Johnny Escolero, for example, has noticed a marked improvement in both the number and duration of seizures he experiences – which has led to an overall improvement in concentration, confidence and independence. Prior to receiving VNS Therapy, Johnny was having multiple seizures per day. Anti-epileptic medications could not control his seizures – which could last up to 45 minutes.

"Johnny was young when he was diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy," said Olga Espinoza, Johnny's mother. "Despite medications, his seizures were still uncontrolled. It wasn't until Johnny's doctor told us about VNS Therapy that we were able to find relief. Since his procedure, Johnny's seizures have decreased to one every few months, and they are much less severe.  He feels more confident and independent, and has returned to technical college full-time. VNS Therapy has done so much for Johnny – it's given him his life back."

Epilepsy Awareness Month is a time to focus on the treatment needs of all people with seizures, including those with drug-resistant epilepsy, according to Philip Gattone, president and CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation.  "Individuals with uncontrolled seizures need access to new therapies and meaningful support. The Epilepsy Foundation is committed to ensuring all people with epilepsy are able to enjoy a greater quality of life, including those people impacted by the treatment gap," states Gattone.

Individual results may vary. To hear from more real patients with real stories, visit www.Facebook.com/VNSTherapyForEpilepsy or www.SeizureControl.com.

About VNS Therapy for Epilepsy

VNS Therapy is a proven treatment designed to prevent seizures before they occur and stop them when they do. It is a unique treatment approach developed specifically for people with drug-resistant epilepsy, a condition that affects one in three people with epilepsy.  For more information, visit www.VNSTherapy.com or www.SeizureControl.com.

About LivaNova

LivaNova PLC is a global medical technology company formed by the merger of Sorin S.p.A, a leader in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, and Cyberonics Inc., a medical device company with core expertise in neuromodulation.  LivaNova transforms medical innovation into meaningful solutions for the benefit of patients, healthcare professionals, and healthcare systems. The Company employs approximately 4,600 employees worldwide and is headquartered in London, U.K.

INTENDED USE/INDICATION

The VNS Therapy system is indicated for use as an adjunctive therapy in reducing the frequency of seizures in adults and adolescents over 12 years of age with partial onset seizures that are refractory to antiepileptic medications. Individual results may vary. Common side effects include hoarseness or changes in voice tone, prickling feeling in the skin, shortness of breath, sore throat and coughing. Visit www.VNSTherapy.com/important-safety-information to view safety and full prescribing information.

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SOURCE LivaNova PLC