opinion: timely access to promising epilepsy therapy and support is crucial

the canadian epilepsy alliance (cea) is a network of 25 community-based agencies promoting independence and quality of life for people affected by epilepsy. our member associations provide a range of services from coast-to-coast, encompassing counselling, education, advocacy, public awareness, employment assistance, children’s programs and support groups. unfortunately, despite the crucial services offered, these organizations remain unsupported by governments, unlike many other patient groups that receive operating subsidies.

despite the gap in government support for the cea and each of its member associations, we remain committed to advocating for canadian families affected by epilepsy. one of our most important priorities is ensuring timely and affordable access to promising new medications. this is particularly important for people living with epilepsy, as the chance of achieving seizure freedom decreases dramatically with each new medication prescribed. nearly half of newly diagnosed epilepsy patients find relief with the first medicine they try. however, for those who don’t, the second medication proves unsuccessful for 75 per cent of them. those attempting a third medication face a staggering 97 per cent failure rate.

this highlights the critical need for accessible new medications—particularly for the 100,000 canadians still grappling with uncontrolled seizures . provincial governments can demonstrate leadership by supporting new epilepsy treatments with promising clinical trial data. one recent example is xcopri (cenobamate) , which was approved by health canada in june. the government-funded agency responsible for reviewing new medications (the canadian agency for drugs and technologies in health) recommended it be publicly covered by provincial governments through their drug plans. making treatments like this available to prescribing doctors and their patients will ensure people can get the treatment they need sooner, reducing the likelihood that epilepsy will continue to exert control over their lives.