Medicina (B Aires). 2025;85(6):1219-1225.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Ketogenic diet therapies constitute an option for drug resistant epilepsies and have been mostly used in children. The aims of this study were to analyze adherence, efficacy and tolerability of ketogenic diet in adolescents and adults in Uruguay.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted in patients 15 years or older with drug resistant epilepsies, treated either with classic ketogenic diet (CKD) or modified Atkins diet (MAD). Frequent face to face and remote clinical controls were carried out, as well as paraclinical studies both before and during treatment.

RESULTS: Sixteen patients aged 15 to 46 years were included. CKD was used in 12 and MAD in 4. Retention percentages were 94% (n=15), 81% (n=13) and 63% (n=10) at 3, 6 and 12 months respectively. Seizure reduction >50%, was observed in 56% (n=9), 63% (n=10) and 56% (n=9) at 3, 6 and 12 months. At the same time points 13% (n=2), 19% (n=3) y 13% (n=2) showed seizure freedom. Increased improvement as the patients remained longer on the diet was seen in 25% (n=4) of them. Most adverse effects were mild and transient. No cardiovascular events were recognized in this population, either during treatment or subsequent follow up.

DISCUSSION: Retention rates were relatively high, likely due to close control. Efficacy in this group was good and comparable to studies in children. This might be linked to the high adherence observed. The ketogenic diet in this cohort was safe and well tolerated.

PMID:41313095

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