For many Japanese families in 2025, non-pharmacological interventions like the ketogenic diet play a vital role in managing the metabolic and electrical environment of the brain. This high-fat, low-carbohydrate regimen forces the body to burn fats for energy, producing ketones that have a stabilizing effect on neuronal membranes. When administered under the strict supervision of a specialized dietitian and neurologist, this diet has proven effective for patients who do not respond adequately to pharmaceutical protocols alone. The Japan Dravet Syndrome Sector emphasizes that while the diet is rigorous, the availability of specialized ketogenic formulas in Japan has made it more manageable for caregivers. Additionally, other interventions such as Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) are utilized to provide a continuous, low-level electrical pulse that can help disrupt the abnormal brain activity patterns responsible for seizures, offering another layer of protection for patients with highly refractory conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is the ketogenic diet safe for children with Dravet Syndrome? A. It is safe but must be conducted under strict medical supervision to monitor for side effects like kidney stones or growth issues.

Q. How does Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) work? A. A small device is implanted in the chest that sends regular electrical pulses to the brain via the vagus nerve to help calm overactive electrical signals.