Indication

Epilepsy

RAG rating

Amber initiation

Document type

NICE technology appraisal

Place

Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB

Output type

Pharmacy / Prescribing

Cenobamate

HERTFORDSHIRE AND WEST ESSEX AREA PRESCRIBING COMMITTEE (HWE APC)

Cenobamate for treating focal onset seizures in epilepsy

AMBER INITIATION

 

Recommended for initiation by specialists, ongoing prescribing in primary care

 

Name generic (trade): Cenobamate

What it is: Antiepileptic

Indication: Licensed for treating focal onset seizures in epilepsy

Date decision last revised: October 2025

NICE: NICE TA 753 recommended

 

HWE APC recommendation:

Cenobamate is recommended as an option as an add-on treatment for focal onset seizures with or without secondary generalised seizures in adults with drug-resistant epilepsy that has not been adequately controlled with at least 2 antiseizure medicines. It is recommended only as a second-line add-on treatment if:

• it is used after at least 1 first-line add-on treatment has not controlled seizures, and other first-line add-on treatments are contraindicated or not tolerated, and 
• treatment is started by a healthcare professional with expertise in epilepsy, after which treatment can be continued in primary care.

Further information: for latest updates and more detailed information, including contra-indications, cautions and special warnings; please refer to summary of product characteristics SPC)

 

 

Review date: The recommendation is based upon the evidence available at the time of publication. This recommendation will be reviewed upon request in the light of new evidence becoming available.