Managing Epilepsy Well- WebEase Project

Not Applicable

Completed

• Conditions: Epilepsy
• Interventions: Behavioral: WebEase

• Registration Number: NCT00726076
• Lead Sponsor: Emory University

Brief Summary

The purpose of this study is to test a computer program for people with epilepsy. The program was developed to help people with epilepsy improve their self-management skills for taking medications, reducing stress, and sleeping well.

Detailed Description

WebEase is an internet self-management program for people with epilepsy. Our goal is to offer a program that supports the management of epilepsy by people with epilepsy. The program is based on proven techniques of motivational interviewing and stages of change. Before offering WebEase to the general public, we tested the program among volunteers with epilepsy. We recruited individuals with epilepsy who were willing to use the program.

The program was developed by a team of researchers and physicians who treat patients with epilepsy. The program offers information on three major topics: 1) medication taking, 2) stress and 3) sleep management as it relates to epilepsy. It includes quizzes, fact sheets, and links to other authoritative websites on epilepsy.

Before beginning the study, each participant completed a brief survey about medications, stress, and sleep. Then participants worked through the WebEase program. WebEase consists of three modules: medication, stress, and sleep. Each module lasts 2 weeks, and includes an interactive session geared specifically to each person's needs. During the study, each participant kept a diary of medications, stress, sleep, and seizures, which allowed them to see changes over time. After completing the WebEase program, participants completed two more brief surveys about six weeks apart. About half of the participants were asked to complete two surveys about 6 weeks apart before beginning the WebEase program. These individuals completed one survey after the end of the program.

Study Timeline

• Study Start: 2008-07
• Study First Submitted: 2008-07-29
• Study First Submitted QC: 2008-07-30
• Study First Posted: 2008-07-31
• Primary Completion: 2010-10
• Study Completion: 2010-11
• Status Verified: 2013-12
• Last Update Submitted: 2013-12-10
• Last Update Posted: 2013-12-11

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: COMPLETED
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 194

Inclusion Criteria

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Understand and speak English
• Have been diagnosed with epilepsy
• Have been on an antiepileptic medication (AED) for at least 3 months
• Have access to the internet
• Be willing to participate
• Have not participated in WebEase in the past

Exclusion Criteria

• Under age 18
• Unable to understand and speak English
• Have NOT been diagnosed with epilepsy
• Have NOT been on an AED for at least 3 months
• Not willing to participate
• Have participated in WebEase in the past

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: CROSSOVER

Arm && Interventions

Group	Intervention	Description
Treatment	WebEase	The Treatment Group received the WebEase Intervention immediately after completing the Baseline Assessment.
Control	WebEase	Control Group also received the WebEase Intervention. However, Control Group participants began the Intervention 6 weeks after completing the Baseline Assessment.

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Epilepsy self-management: medication adherence, stress level, and sleep quality	Baseline- 6 weeks- 12 weeks

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Seizure frequency	Baseline- 6 weeks- 12 weeks

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University; 🇺🇸 Atlanta, Georgia, United States