Perception and Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Patients With Epilepsy

Abstract

Background: Complementary and alternative medicine is considered and used by many people with epilepsy to treat seizures, despite the lack of enough scientific proof for its efficacy. Objectives: The aim of the current study was to assess the extent to which patients with epilepsy use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and to assess the perceptions of CAM among these patients. Patients and Methods: In this study patients with epilepsy were recruited at two epilepsy centers in Iran (Shiraz and Tehran). The survey collected specific information about CAM perceptions and usage. All independent variables were correlated with the dependent variables: the perception about CAM and the CAM usage. The Pearson Chi-square test and Student’s t-test were used for univariate analyses. Subsequently, multivariate analysis using logistic regression was performed on variables that were significant (P < 0.05) in univariate analysis. Results: Three hundred and twenty-three patients and / or their caregivers in Shiraz, and 227 people in Tehran were recruited. One hundred and thirty-nine patients (43%) in Shiraz, and 116 (51%) in Tehran and it was thought that at least one of CAM treatments might be helpful to treat seizures. Forty-five patients in Shiraz and 30 people in Tehran had used CAM to treat their seizures. We could not find a model to predict which thinks that CAM is effective in treating seizures. However, we found a model among CAM users. Within this model educational level made a significant contribution. People with epilepsy who had either a low education or, on the contrary, were highly educated more likely used CAM to treat their seizures. Conclusions: CAM is considered and used by many people with epilepsy to treat their seizures. Cultural issues probably play an important role in having faith in CAM and consequently using a specific method of CAM to treat seizures.