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Shakoor M, Tareen F, Rehman Z, Saghir K, Ashraf W, Anjum S, Ahmad T, Alqahtani F, Imran I. Probiotics by Modulating Gut-Brain Axis Together With Brivaracetam Mitigate Seizure Progression, Behavioral Incongruities, and Prevented Neurodegeneration in Pentylenetetrazole-Kindled Mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e70078. [PMID: 39470120 PMCID: PMC11520030 DOI: 10.1111/cns.70078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2024] [Revised: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) is a central nexus that integrates higher cognitive and emotional centers of the central nervous system (CNS) within the intricate functioning of the intestine. Accumulating evidence suggests that dysbiosis in the taxonomic diversity of gut flora plays a salient role in the progression of epilepsy and comorbid secondary complications. METHODS In the current study, we investigated the impact of long-term oral bacteriotherapy (probiotics; 10 mL/kg; 109 colony-forming unit/ml) as an adjunctive treatment intervention with brivaracetam (BRV; 10 mg/kg) over 21 days on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced augmented epileptic response and associated electrographical and behavioral perturbations in mice. Moreover, we also unveiled antioxidant capacity and histopathologic changes in treated versus non-treated animals. RESULTS Results revealed combination increases seizure threshold and prevented high ictal spiking. Additionally, it alleviated PTZ-induced neuropsychiatric disturbances such as anxiety and depressive-like phenotype along with cognitive deficits. Furthermore, dual therapy prompted physiological oxidant/antioxidant balance as evidenced by increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD and catalase) and reduced levels of oxidative stressor (MDA). This therapeutic intervention with commensal species suppressed network-driven neuroinflammation and preserved normal cytoarchitecture with intact morphology in the pyramidal layers of cornu ammonis (CA1 and CA3). CONCLUSION Our study provides supporting evidence for the use of probiotics as adjunctive therapy with anti-seizure medications to modulate epileptogenic processes and related multimorbidities, particularly in individuals with drug-resistant seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Usman Shakoor
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of PharmacyBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
| | - Fashwa Khan Tareen
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of PharmacyBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
| | - Zohabia Rehman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of PharmacyBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
| | - Khaled Ahmed Saghir
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of PharmacyBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
| | - Waseem Ashraf
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of PharmacyBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
| | | | - Tanveer Ahmad
- Institut Pour l'Avancée Des Biosciences, Centre de Recherche UGA/INSERM U1209/CNRS 5309Université Grenoble AlpesGrenobleFrance
| | - Faleh Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of PharmacyKing Saud UniversityRiyadhSaudi Arabia
| | - Imran Imran
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of PharmacyBahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultanPakistan
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Wu PP, Cao BR, Tian FY, Gao ZB. Development of SV2A Ligands for Epilepsy Treatment: A Review of Levetiracetam, Brivaracetam, and Padsevonil. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:594-608. [PMID: 37897555 PMCID: PMC11127901 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01138-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that is primarily treated with antiseizure medications (ASMs). Although dozens of ASMs are available in the clinic, approximately 30% of epileptic patients have medically refractory seizures; other limitations in most traditional ASMs include poor tolerability and drug-drug interactions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop alternative ASMs. Levetiracetam (LEV) is a first-line ASM that is well tolerated, has promising efficacy, and has little drug-drug interaction. Although it is widely accepted that LEV acts through a unique therapeutic target synaptic vesicle protein (SV) 2A, the molecular basis of its action remains unknown. Even so, the next-generation SV2A ligands against epilepsy based on the structure of LEV have achieved clinical success. This review highlights the research and development (R&D) process of LEV and its analogs, brivaracetam and padsevonil, to provide ideas and experience for the R&D of novel ASMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Peng Wu
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Bi-Rong Cao
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Fu-Yun Tian
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
| | - Zhao-Bing Gao
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
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Zhang S, Xie S, Zheng Y, Chen Z, Xu C. Current advances in rodent drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy models: Hints from laboratory studies. Neurochem Int 2024; 174:105699. [PMID: 38382810 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Anti-seizure drugs (ASDs) are the first choice for the treatment of epilepsy, but there is still one-third of patients with epilepsy (PWEs) who are resistant to two or more appropriately chosen ASDs, named drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), a common type of epilepsy usually associated with hippocampal sclerosis (HS), shares the highest proportion of drug resistance (approximately 70%). In view of the key role of the temporal lobe in memory, emotion, and other physiological functions, patients with drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (DR-TLE) are often accompanied by serious complications, and surgical procedures also yield extra considerations. The exact mechanisms for the genesis of DR-TLE remain unillustrated, which makes it hard to manage patients with DR-TLE in clinical practice. Animal models of DR-TLE play an irreplaceable role in both understanding the mechanism and searching for new therapeutic strategies or drugs. In this review article, we systematically summarized different types of current DR-TLE models, and then recent advances in mechanism investigations obtained in these models were presented, especially with the development of advanced experimental techniques and tools. We are deeply encouraged that novel strategies show great therapeutic potential in those DR-TLE models. Based on the big steps reached from the bench, a new light has been shed on the precise management of DR-TLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengyang Xie
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cenglin Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
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Zwierzyńska E, Pietrzak B. The impact of brivaracetam on cognitive processes and anxiety in various experimental models. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:86-97. [PMID: 38182968 PMCID: PMC10830775 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00564-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Memory deficits and anxiety symptoms are undesirable effects that occur in epilepsy patients. They may be associated with the pathophysiology of the disease but also with anticonvulsant therapy. Brivaracetam (BRV) is one of the newest antiseizure drugs. It acts as a ligand for synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A), which may play a significant role in cognitive processes. Although BRV has a favorable safety profile, its central side effects remain unclear. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of BRV on various types of memory and anxiety in rats. METHODS BRV was given to adult male Wistar rats (n = 80) via gastric tube as a single dose (6 mg/kg or 20 mg/kg) or chronically (6 mg/kg). The effect of the drug on spatial memory was evaluated in the Morris water maze (MWM), fear-learning by passive avoidance (PA), and recognition memory with novel object recognition (NOR). The elevated plus maze (EPM) was used to assess anxiety-like behaviors. RESULTS The impact of BRV on memory is dose-dependent and mainly high doses may alter retrieval memory and fear-learning. Sub-chronic administration also impaired retrieval and spatial memory in animals. Moreover, chronic BRV may increase anxiety levels in rats but did not affect recognition memory. CONCLUSIONS BRV may cause transient memory deficits as well as anxiety disturbances. However, the results are varied and depend on the type of memory, used dose, and duration of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Zwierzyńska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-151, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Bogusława Pietrzak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-151, Łódź, Poland
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Martellino C, Laganà A, Atanasio G, Lamanna F, Attardo S, Cascino S, De Luca M, Pardeo O, Giacobbe G, Tripepi G, Roberti R, Granata F, Morace C, Russo E, Labate A. The real-world effectiveness of intravenous brivaracetam as a second-line treatment in status epilepticus. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 148:109464. [PMID: 37839249 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Status epilepticus (SE) is defined by abnormally prolonged seizures that may lead to brain damage and death. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability (effectiveness) of intravenous brivaracetam (BRV) as a second-line treatment. METHODS Twenty-one patients (median age 68 years ± 17.28) were prospectively recruited between June 2019 and December 2022. Patients were treated with BRV (50-200 mg) as a second-line add-on therapy for SE. We evaluated the response of SE to the administration of BRV in terms of SE termination and recurrence of epileptic seizures at 6, 12, and 24 h, also monitoring safety. The first-line therapy was represented by intravenous benzodiazepines (mainly diazepam). RESULTS Almost a quarter of patients had generalized seizures, whereas the vast majority (76.2%) presented focal seizures. In 52.4% of patients, the underlying cause was cerebrovascular. Fourteen (66.7%) patients displayed a good early response in the subsequent 6 h. At 12 and 24 h, 8 (38%) and 11 (52.4%) patients, respectively, did not present seizures. CONCLUSION The present study highlights the potential of BRV when used as an early add-on therapy in SE, further confirming its good safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Martellino
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Angelina Laganà
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy; Regional Epilepsy Center, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giorgia Atanasio
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Lamanna
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Attardo
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Cascino
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marcella De Luca
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Orazio Pardeo
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Giacobbe
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tripepi
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), Clinical Epidemiology of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, Ospedali Riuniti, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Roberta Roberti
- Science of Health Department, University Magna Grecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Carmela Morace
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, University Magna Grecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Angelo Labate
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy; Regional Epilepsy Center, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Elshater AA, Sadek AA, Abdelkreem E. Levetiracetam and Midazolam vs Midazolam Alone for First-Line Treatment of Children With Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus (Lev-Mid Study): A Randomized Controlled Trial. Indian Pediatr 2023; 60:630-636. [PMID: 37211889 DOI: 10.1007/s13312-023-2960-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines are the first-line anti-seizure medication (ASM) for generalized convulsive status epilepticus (GCSE), but they fail to end seizures in a third of cases. Combining benzodiazepines with another ASM that acts by a different pathway could be a potential strategy for rapid control of GCSE. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of adding levetiracetam to midazolam in the initial treatment of pediatric GCSE. DESIGN Double-blind randomized controlled trial. SETTING Pediatric emergency room at Sohag University Hospital between June, 2021 and August, 2022. PARTICIPANTS Children aged between 1 month and 16 years with GCSE lasting more than 5 min. INTERVENTIONS Intravenous levetiracetam (60 mg/kg over 5 min) and midazolam (Lev-Mid group) or placebo and midazolam (Pla-Mid group) as first-line anticonvulsive therapy. OUTCOME MEASURES Primary: cessation of clinical seizures at 20-min study time point. Secondary: cessation of clinical seizures at 40-min study time point, need for a second midazolam dose, seizure control at 24-hr, need for intubation, and adverse effects. RESULTS Cessation of clinical seizures at 20-min occurred in 55 children (76%) in Lev-Mid group compared with 50 (69%) in the Pla-Mid group [RR (95% CI) 1.1 (0.9-1.34); P=0.35]. No significant difference was found between the two groups regarding the need for a second midazolam dose [44.4% vs 55.6%; RR (95% CI) 0.8 (0.58-1.11); P=0.18] as well as cessation of clinical seizures at 40-min [96% vs 92%; RR (95% CI)1.05 (0.96-1.14); P=0.49] and seizure control at 24-hr [85% vs 76%; RR (95% CI) 1.12 (0.94-1.3); P=0.21]. Intubation was required for three patients in the Lev-Mid group and six patients in the Pla-Mid group [RR (95%CI) 0.5 (0.13- 1.92); P=0.49]. No other adverse effects or mortality were observed during the 24-hour study timeframe. CONCLUSION Combined levetiracetam and midazolam for initial management of pediatric GCSE presents no significant advantage over midazolam alone in cessation of clinical seizures at 20-min.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Elshater
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahim A Sadek
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Elsayed Abdelkreem
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt. Correspondence to: Dr Elsayed Abdelkreem, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt.
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Brivaracetam Modulates Short-Term Synaptic Activity and Low-Frequency Spontaneous Brain Activity by Delaying Synaptic Vesicle Recycling in Two Distinct Rodent Models of Epileptic Seizures. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1058-1074. [PMID: 35278193 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-01983-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Brivaracetam (BRV) is an anti-seizure drug for the treatment of focal and generalized epileptic seizures shown to augment short-term synaptic fatigue by slowing down synaptic vesicle recycling rates in control animals. In this study, we sought to investigate whether altered short-term synaptic activities could be a pathological hallmark during the interictal periods of epileptic seizures in two well-established rodent models, as well as to reveal BRV's therapeutic roles in altered short-term synaptic activities and low-frequency band spontaneous brain hyperactivity in these models. In our study, the electrophysiological field excitatory post-synaptic potential (fEPSP) recordings were performed in rat hippocampal brain slices from the CA1 region by stimulation of the Schaffer collateral/commissural pathway with or without BRV (30 μM for 3 h) in control or epileptic seizure (induced by pilocarpine (PILO) or high potassium (h-K+)) models. Short-term synaptic activities were induced by 5, 10, 20, and 40-Hz stimulation sequences. The effects of BRV on pre-synaptic vesicle mobilization were visually assessed by staining the synaptic vesicles with FM1-43 dye followed by imaging with a two-photon microscope. In the fEPSP measurements, short-term synaptic fatigue was found in the control group, while short-term synaptic potentiation (STP) was detected in both PILO and h-K+ models. STP was decreased after the slices were treated with BRV (30 μM) for 3 h. BRV also exhibited its therapeutic benefits by decreasing abnormal peak power (frequency range of 8-13 Hz, 31% of variation for PILO model, 25% of variation for h-K+ model) and trough power (frequency range of 1-4 Hz, 66% of variation for PILO model, 49% of variation for h-K+ model), and FM1-43 stained synaptic vesicle mobility (64% of the variation for PILO model, 45% of the variation for h-K+ model) in these epileptic seizure models. To the best of our knowledge, this was the first report that BRV decreased the STP and abnormal low-frequency brain activities during the interictal phase of epileptic seizures by slowing down the mobilization of synaptic vesicles in two rodent models. These mechanistic findings would greatly advance our understanding of BRV's pharmacological role in pathomechanisms of epileptic seizures and its treatment strategy optimization to avoid or minimize BRV-induced possible adverse side reactions.
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Ling DSF, Yang L, Goodman JH. Brivaracetam prevents the development of epileptiform activity when administered early after cortical neurotrauma in rats. Epilepsia 2022; 63:992-1002. [PMID: 35037242 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is no effective therapy to prevent the development of posttraumatic epilepsy (PTE). Recently, we reported that administration of the antiseizure medication (ASM) levetiracetam (LEV) shortly after trauma prevented the development of epileptiform activity in two experimental models of neurotrauma. However, the time window for effective intervention with LEV may be too narrow for most clinical settings. Using the controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury model, the current study tested whether early administration of brivaracetam (BRV), an ASM with 20 times the affinity of LEV for the SV2A synaptic vesicle protein, could improve upon the antiepileptogenic action observed with LEV. METHODS Rats (postnatal day [P] 24-32) subjected to CCI injury were given a single dose of BRV (21 or 100 mg/kg, i.p.) at one of three post-injury time points: immediately (0-2 minutes), 30 minutes, or 60 minutes. Control animals received only vehicle (0.9% saline). Posttraumatic electrographic epileptiform activity was assayed ex vivo from coronal neocortical slices collected proximal to the injury (four per rat) 3-4 weeks after injury. In this model, ictal-like burst discharges occur spontaneously or can be evoked in an "all or none" manner with applied electrical stimulation within the first 2 weeks after injury. RESULTS A single dose of BRV administered to rats up to 60 minutes after traumatic brain injury (TBI) significantly reduced the development of posttraumatic epileptiform activity by (1) inhibiting the development of both evoked and spontaneous epileptiform activity, (2) raising the threshold for stimulus-evoked epileptiform discharges, and (3) reducing the intensity of epileptiform bursts that arise after cortical neurotrauma. SIGNIFICANCE Clinically there has been little success preventing the development of posttraumatic epilepsy. The results of this study support the hypothesis that early intervention with BRV has the potential to prevent or reduce posttraumatic epileptogenesis, and that there may be a limited time window for successful prophylactic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas S F Ling
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Lie Yang
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Jeffrey H Goodman
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Neurology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Developmental Neurobiology, The New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
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Llauradó A, Quintana M, Ballvé A, Campos D, Fonseca E, Abraira L, Toledo M, Santamarina E. Factors associated with resistance to benzodiazepines in status epilepticus. J Neurol Sci 2021; 423:117368. [PMID: 33652289 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.117368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate factors related to benzodiazepine (BZD) resistance in status epilepticus (SE) with a focus on their relationship with the etiology of the episode. METHODS All SE cases in patients aged >16 years treated with BZDs were prospectively collected in our center from February 2011 to April 2019. The registry included demographics, SE type and etiology, the timing and duration of BZD administration, and the outcome. In total, 371 episodes were analyzed. RESULTS Median age at SE onset was 61.3 years; the most frequent etiology was acute symptomatic (55.8%). SE with prominent motor symptoms occurred in 63.3%. Median time to BZD administration was 2 h. We studied the correlation between two-time variables: time from SE onset to BZD administration and time from BZD administration to resolution of SE (response); we observed that timely administration correlated with a faster response in patients with prominent motor symptoms (p = 0.017), SE due to a chronic structural cerebral lesion (p = 0.004), and patients with a history of seizures (p = 0.013). In these subgroups (prominent motor symptoms or chronic structural lesion) BZD administration within the first 4.5 h was highly associated with shorter post-BZD SE duration (p < 0.001). SIGNIFICANCE The relationship between prompt BZD administration and subsequent duration of SE was found to depend to some extent on the etiology of the episode: patients with chronic structural lesions and those with previous epilepsy responded faster to BZDs. Semiology may have also its impact, as the presence of prominent motor symptoms showed also a faster response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnau Llauradó
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Quintana
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alejandro Ballvé
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Campos
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Fonseca
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Abraira
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Toledo
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Estevo Santamarina
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Vall de Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.
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Orlandi N, Bartolini E, Audenino D, Coletti Moja M, Urso L, d'Orsi G, Pauletto G, Nilo A, Zinno L, Cappellani R, Zummo L, Giordano A, Dainese F, Nazerian P, Pescini F, Beretta S, Dono F, Gaudio LD, Ferlisi M, Marino D, Piccioli M, Renna R, Rosati E, Rum A, Strigaro G, Giovannini G, Meletti S, Cavalli SM, Contento M, Cottone S, Di Claudio MT, Florindo I, Guadagni M, Kiferle L, Lazzaretti D, Lazzari M, Coco DL, Pradella S, Rikani K, Rodorigo D, Sabetta A, Sicurella L, Tontini V, Turchi G, Vaudano AE, Zanoni T. Intravenous brivaracetam in status epilepticus: A multicentric retrospective study in Italy. Seizure 2021; 86:70-76. [PMID: 33561784 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE to evaluate the use, effectiveness, and adverse events of intravenous brivaracetam (BRV) in status epilepticus (SE). METHODS a retrospective multicentric study involving 24 Italian neurology units was performed from March 2018 to June 2020. A shared case report form was used across participating centres to limit biases of retrospective data collection. Diagnosis and classification of SE followed the 2015 ILAE proposal. We considered a trial with BRV a success when it was the last administered drug prior the clinical and/or EEG resolution of seizures, and the SE did not recur during hospital observation. In addition, we considered cases with early response, defined as SE resolved within 6 h after BRV administration. RESULTS 56 patients were included (mean age 62 years; 57 % male). A previous diagnosis of epilepsy was present in 21 (38 %). Regarding SE etiology classification 46 % were acute symptomatic, 18 % remote and 16 % progressive symptomatic. SE episodes with prominent motor features were the majority (80 %). BRV was administered as first drug after benzodiazepine failure in 21 % episodes, while it was used as the second or the third (or more) drug in the 38 % and 38 % of episodes respectively. The median loading dose was 100 mg (range 50-300 mg). BRV was effective in 32 cases (57 %). An early response was documented in 22 patients (39 % of the whole sample). The use of the BRV within 6 h from SE onset was independently associated to an early SE resolution (OR 32; 95 % CI 3.39-202; p = 0.002). No severe treatment emergent adverse events were observed. CONCLUSION BRV proved to be useful and safe for the treatment of SE. Time to seizures resolution appears shorter when it is administered in the early phases of SE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Orlandi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Neurology Department, OCB Hospital, AOU Modena, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bartolini
- Neurology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Santo Stefano, USL Centro Toscana, Prato, Italy
| | | | | | - Lidia Urso
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, PO. S. Antonio Abate, Trapani, Italy
| | - Giuseppe d'Orsi
- Epilepsy Centre - S.C. Neurologia Universitaria, Policlinico Riuniti, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giada Pauletto
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Della Misericordia University Hospital, ASUFC, Udine, Italy
| | - Annacarmen Nilo
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Della Misericordia University Hospital, ASUFC, Udine, Italy
| | - Lucia Zinno
- Neurology Unit, Maggiore Hospital, AOU Parma, Italy
| | | | - Leila Zummo
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, P.O. ARNAS-Civico, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Filippo Dainese
- Epilepsy Centre, UOC Neurology, ULSS3 Serenissima, Venice, Italy
| | - Peiman Nazerian
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Simone Beretta
- Department of Neurology, Ospedale San Gerardo ASST Monza, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
| | - Fedele Dono
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, University "G. D'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniela Marino
- Epilepsy Center, Neurology Unit, Department of Cardio-neuro-vascular Sciences, San Donato Hospital, Arezzo, Italy
| | | | - Rosaria Renna
- Neurological Clinic and Stroke Unit - "A. Cardarelli" Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rosati
- Neurology Unit 2, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Adriana Rum
- Neurology and Neurophysiopatology Unit, Aurelia Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Meletti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Neurology Department, OCB Hospital, AOU Modena, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Martina Guadagni
- Epilepsy Center, Neurology Unit, Department of Cardio-neuro-vascular Sciences, San Donato Hospital, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Kiferle
- Neurology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Santo Stefano, USL Centro Toscana, Prato, Italy
| | - Delia Lazzaretti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Lo Coco
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, P.O. ARNAS-Civico, Palermo, Italy
| | - Silvia Pradella
- Neurology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Santo Stefano, USL Centro Toscana, Prato, Italy
| | | | - Davide Rodorigo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, University "G. D'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Annarita Sabetta
- Epilepsy Centre - S.C. Neurologia Universitaria, Policlinico Riuniti, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Sicurella
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, PO. S. Antonio Abate, Trapani, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Turchi
- Neurology Department, OCB Hospital, AOU Modena, Italy
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11
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Moalong KMC, Espiritu AI, Fernandez MLL. Efficacy and tolerability of intravenous brivaracetam for status epilepticus: A systematic review. J Neurol Sci 2020; 413:116799. [PMID: 32278203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Status epilepticus (SE) is an emergent neurologic condition that carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Intravenous brivaracetam (IV BRV) may be an alternative anticonvulsant against status epilepticus, although the sparseness of controlled studies on the topic limits its recommendation for this indication. OBJECTIVES This systematic review aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of IV BRV in the treatment of status epilepticus. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted until December 2019 through several electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, OpenGrey, ScienceDirect, HERDIN, Epistemonikos, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov) to identify relevant studies. Studies that involved adult patients with SE who were given IV BRV were considered for inclusion in this review. RESULTS From a total of 34 studies identified, 5 uncontrolled studies with 77 patients were included in this review. Thirty-seven out of 77 patients (48%) with SE responded to IV BRV. Reported time to seizure cessation may be immediate from a few minutes to several hours after IV BRV treatment. Patients manifested with significant disability on Glasgow outcome scale (Median: 3) and modified Rankin scale (Mode: 5). Six patients [somnolence (5), worsening seizures (1)] had treatment emergent adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Limited evidence from 5 uncontrolled studies involving a limited number of patients suggests that IV BRV may be efficacious and safe in terminating seizures among patients with SE or refractory SE. Further studies employing either prospective, controlled trials or registry-based study designs are essential to determine the definitive role of IV BRV in patients with SE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Michael C Moalong
- Department of Neurosciences, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.
| | - Adrian I Espiritu
- Department of Neurosciences, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines; Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.
| | - Marc Laurence L Fernandez
- Department of Neurosciences, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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12
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Liampas I, Siokas V, Brotis A, Zintzaras E, Stefanidis I, Dardiotis E. Intravenous sodium valproate in status epilepticus: review and Meta-analysis. Int J Neurosci 2020; 131:70-84. [DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1732967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Elias Zintzaras
- Department of Biomathematics, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, the Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ioannis Stefanidis
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Abstract
Convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) is one of the most common pediatric neurological emergencies. Ongoing seizure activity is a dynamic process and may be associated with progressive impairment of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated inhibition due to rapid internalization of GABAA receptors. Further hyperexcitability may be caused by AMPA (alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) and NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartic acid) receptors moving from subsynaptic sites to the synaptic membrane. Receptor trafficking during prolonged seizures may contribute to difficulties treating seizures of longer duration and may provide some of the pathophysiological underpinnings of established and refractory SE (RSE). Simultaneously, a practice change toward more rapid initiation of first-line benzodiazepine (BZD) treatment and faster escalation to second-line non-BZD treatment for established SE is in progress. Early administration of the recommended BZD dose is suggested. For second-line treatment, non-BZD anti-seizure medications (ASMs) include valproate, fosphenytoin, or levetiracetam, among others, and at this point there is no clear evidence that any one of these options is better than the others. If seizures continue after second-line ASMs, RSE is manifested. RSE treatment consists of bolus doses and titration of continuous infusions under continuous electro-encephalography (EEG) guidance until electrographic seizure cessation or burst-suppression. Ultimately, etiological workup and related treatment of CSE, including broad spectrum immunotherapies as clinically indicated, is crucial. A potential therapeutic approach for future studies may entail consideration of interventions that may accelerate diagnosis and treatment of SE, as well as rational and early polytherapy based on synergism between ASMs by utilizing medications targeting different mechanisms of epileptogenesis and epileptogenicity.
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14
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Khan AU, Akram M, Daniyal M, Akhter N, Riaz M, Akhtar N, Shariati MA, Anjum F, Khan SG, Parveen A, Ahmad S. Awareness and current knowledge of epilepsy. Metab Brain Dis 2020; 35:45-63. [PMID: 31605258 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-019-00494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a severe neural disorder that affects approximately fifty million individuals globally. Despite the fact that for most of the people with epilepsy, convulsions are better controlled by current accessible antiepileptic medicines, yet there are more than 30% of individuals affected with medically intractable epilepsy and around 30-40% of all patients with epilepsy affected by many adverse reactions and convulsion resistance to the present antiepileptic drugs. Consequently, various scientists attempt to develop new strategies to treat epilepsy, for instance, to find out novel antiepileptic ingredients from traditional medicines. This work aims to present a complete summary of natural medicines prescribed as antiepileptic agents all over the world by ethnic groups and different tribes. We undertook an extensive bibliographic analysis by searching peer reviewed papers and classical textbooks and further consulting well accepted worldwide scientific databases. We carried out PubMed, EMbase and CENTRAL searches by means of terms such as "antiepileptic" and "anti-convulsant" activity of plants. Medicinal plants have been prescribed to treat epilepsy and have been recognized as antiepileptic medicines. In this review, a variety of herbs have been reviewed for thorough studies such as Cuminum cyminum, Butea monosperma, Solanum americanum, Anacyclus pyrethrum, Leonotis leonurus, Elaeocarpus ganitrus and Angelica archangelica. This paper shows that it was high time experimental studies are increased to obtain novel potential active principles from medicinal plants. Plant extracts and their chemical constituents should be further evaluated to clarify their mechanisms of action. This paper provides a solid base upon which to further investigate the clinical efficacy of medicinal plants that are both currently prescribed by physicians as traditional antiepileptic agents, but also could be effective as an antiepileptic drug with further research and study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmat Ullah Khan
- Department of Eastern Medicine, The University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Akram
- Department of Eastern Medicine, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Daniyal
- TCM and Ethnomedicine Innovation & Development International Laboratory, Innovative Materia Medica Research Institute, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Naheed Akhter
- College of Allied Health Professional, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Riaz
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, Sargodha Medical College, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Naheed Akhtar
- Department of Pharmacy, The University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Ali Shariati
- Kazakh Research Institute of Processing and Food industry (Semey branch), Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - Fozia Anjum
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Samreen Gul Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Abida Parveen
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Saeed Ahmad
- University College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan.
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15
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Steinhoff BJ, Staack AM. Levetiracetam and brivaracetam: a review of evidence from clinical trials and clinical experience. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2019; 12:1756286419873518. [PMID: 31523280 PMCID: PMC6734620 DOI: 10.1177/1756286419873518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Until the early 1990s, a limited number of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were available. Since then, a large variety of new AEDs have been developed and introduced, several of them offering new modes of action. One of these new AED families is described and reviewed in this article. Levetiracetam (LEV) and brivaracetam (BRV) are pyrrolidone derivate compounds binding at the presynaptic SV2A receptor site and are thus representative of AEDs with a unique mode of action. LEV was extensively investigated in randomized controlled trials and has a very promising efficacy both in focal and generalized epilepsies. Its pharmacokinetic profile is favorable and LEV does not undergo clinically relevant interactions. Adverse reactions comprise mainly asthenia, somnolence, and behavioral symptoms. It has now been established as a first-line antiepileptic drug. BRV has been recently introduced as an adjunct antiepileptic drug in focal epilepsy with a similarly promising pharmacokinetic profile and possibly increased tolerability concerning psychiatric adverse events. This review summarizes the essential preclinical and clinical data of LEV and BRV that is currently available and includes the experiences at a large tertiary referral epilepsy center.
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16
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Oster JM. Brivaracetam: a newly approved medication for epilepsy. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.2217/fnl-2015-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Brivaracetam (BRV) in both the USA and EU was developed as a novel molecule for the adjunctive treatment of partial-onset (focal) seizures in patients ≥16 years of age and as of September 2017 was approved for use as monotherapy in the USA uniquely as an antiseizure medication that may be prescribed without a dose finding uptitration. This article reviews BRV's pharmacology, efficacy, safety and adverse event profiles, along with the relevant and noted regulatory hurdles in the USA and the EU. Available postmarketing data will also be summarized. Approximately 3000 patients were studied over about 9 years in the clinical trial program illustrating that BRV has efficacy at 50–200 mg/day with an acceptable adverse event profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel M Oster
- Department of Neurology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA 02111, USA
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17
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Brigo F, Lattanzi S, Nardone R, Trinka E. Intravenous Brivaracetam in the Treatment of Status Epilepticus: A Systematic Review. CNS Drugs 2019; 33:771-781. [PMID: 31342405 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-019-00652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brivaracetam is a high-affinity synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A ligand with high brain permeability and rapid onset of action. These properties make brivaracetam potentially an ideal compound in the emergency setting. OBJECTIVE The objective of our study was to review the evidence about the clinical efficacy and tolerability of intravenous brivaracetam in the treatment of status epilepticus. METHODS We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov, and conference proceedings to identify studies evaluating intravenous brivaracetam as treatment for status epilepticus of any type in patients of any age. Searches were conducted on 3 December, 2018. RESULTS Seven studies were included (37 patients; aged 22-85 years; 21 were female). The type and etiology of status epilepticus varied across studies. The number of drugs used prior to brivaracetam to treat status epilepticus ranged from 1 to 8. The time from status epilepticus onset to brivaracetam administration ranged from 0.5 h to 105 days. The initial brivaracetam dose ranged from 50 to 400 mg. In case series, the proportion of patients achieving clinical status epilepticus cessation when brivaracetam was administered as the last drug varied from 27 to 50%; in case reports, all patients had status epilepticus cessation. The time from brivaracetam administration to status epilepticus cessation ranged from 15 min to 94 h. No serious adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS The available data suggested that brivaracetam can be a safe treatment option in patients with status epilepticus. The current evidence is however hampered by several confounding factors, and controlled studies are warranted to define the actual benefit of brivaracetam for the treatment of status epilepticus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Brigo
- Division of Neurology, "Franz Tappeiner" Hospital, Merano, Bolzano, Italy. .,Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134, Verona, Italy.
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Neurological Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Raffaele Nardone
- Division of Neurology, "Franz Tappeiner" Hospital, Merano, Bolzano, Italy.,Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Eugen Trinka
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, UMIT, Hall in Tyrol, Austria
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18
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Santamarina E, Parejo Carbonell B, Sala J, Gutiérrez-Viedma Á, Miró J, Asensio M, Abraira L, Falip M, Ojeda J, López-González FJ, Rodríguez-Osorio X, Mauri JÁ, Aiguabella M, García Morales I, Toledo M. Use of intravenous brivaracetam in status epilepticus: A multicenter registry. Epilepsia 2019; 60:1593-1601. [PMID: 31260101 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The pharmacokinetics of brivaracetam (BRV), added to its effectiveness observed in animal models of status epilepticus (SE), makes this drug attractive for use in emergency situations. Our objective was to evaluate the use of intravenous BRV in a multicenter study. METHODS A retrospective multicenter registry of SE cases treated with BRV was created. These patients were evaluated between January and December 2018 at seven hospitals in Spain. Demographic variables, SE characteristics, concomitant drugs, loading doses, and response to treatment were collected. RESULTS Forty-three patients were registered. The mean age was 56 ± 23.1 years, 51.2% were male, 29 had previous epilepsy, 24 (55.8%) had prominent motor symptoms, and 19 had nonconvulsive symptoms. Regarding the etiology, 19 (44.2%) were considered acute symptomatic, 16 (17.2%) remote symptomatic, four (9.3%) progressive symptomatic, and four (9.3%) cryptogenic. Regarding concomitant antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), 17 had previously received levetiracetam (LEV). In 14 patients, BRV was used early (first or second AED). The median loading dose was 100 mg (range = 50-400), and the weight-adjusted dose was 1.8 mg/kg (range = 0.4-7.3). BRV was effective in 54% (n = 23), and a response was observed in <6 hours in 13 patients. We observed a tendency for it to be more effective when administered earlier (P = 0.09), but there were no differences regarding SE type and the concomitant use of LEV. In those with the fastest responses, we observed that both the total administered dose (300 mg vs 100 mg, P = 0.008) and the weight-adjusted dose (3.85 mg vs 1.43 mg, P = 0.006) were significantly higher. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the best cutoff point for a faster response was 1.82 mg/kg. SIGNIFICANCE BRV is useful for the treatment of SE, even when patients are already being treated with LEV. The response rate seems higher when it is administered earlier and at higher doses (>1.82 mg/kg).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jacint Sala
- Epilepsy Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Álvaro Gutiérrez-Viedma
- Epilepsy Unit, San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Júlia Miró
- Epilepsy Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Montserrat Asensio
- Neurology Department, Alicante University General Hospital, Alicante, Spain
| | - Laura Abraira
- Epilepsy Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercé Falip
- Epilepsy Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Joaquín Ojeda
- Neurology Department, Infanta Sofía Hospital, San Sebastián de los Reyes, Spain
| | | | - Xiana Rodríguez-Osorio
- Epilepsy Unit, Santiago de Compostela University Clinical Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José Ángel Mauri
- Epilepsy Unit, Lozano-Blesa University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maria Aiguabella
- Epilepsy Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | | | - Manuel Toledo
- Epilepsy Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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Abstract
Patients with prolonged seizures that do not respond to intravenous benzodiazepines and a second-line anticonvulsant suffer from refractory status epilepticus and those with seizures that do not respond to continuous intravenous anesthetic anticonvulsants suffer from super-refractory status epilepticus. Both conditions are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. A strict pharmacological treatment regimen is urgently required, but the level of evidence for the available drugs is very low. Refractory complex focal status epilepticus generally does not require anesthetics, but all intravenous non-anesthetizing anticonvulsants may be used. Most descriptive data are available for levetiracetam, phenytoin and valproate. Refractory generalized convulsive status epilepticus is a life-threatening emergency, and long-term clinical consequences are eminent. Administration of intravenous anesthetics is mandatory, and drugs acting at the inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor such as midazolam, propofol and thiopental/pentobarbital are recommended without preference for one of those. One in five patients with anesthetic treatment does not respond and has super-refractory status epilepticus. With sustained seizure activity, excitatory N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are increasingly expressed post-synaptically. Ketamine is an antagonist at this receptor and may prove efficient in some patients at later stages. Neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone increase sensitivity at GABAA receptors; a Phase 1/2 trial demonstrated safety and tolerability, but randomized controlled data failed to demonstrate efficacy. Adjunct ketogenic diet may contribute to termination of difficult-to-treat status epilepticus. Randomized controlled trials are needed to increase evidence for treatment of refractory and super-refractory status epilepticus, but there are multiple obstacles for realization. Hitherto, prospective multicenter registries for pharmacological treatment may help to improve our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Holtkamp
- Epilepsy-Center Berlin-Brandenburg, Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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Farrokh S, Bon J, Erdman M, Tesoro E. Use of Newer Anticonvulsants for the Treatment of Status Epilepticus. Pharmacotherapy 2019; 39:297-316. [PMID: 30723940 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) has a high mortality rate and is one of the most common neurologic emergencies. Fast progression of this neurologic emergency and lack of response to traditional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in most cases has challenged clinicians to use new agents. This article evaluates the efficacy and safety of AEDs released to the market after 2000 for SE, refractory status epilepticus (RSE), and super-refractory status epilepticus (SRSE). The PubMed database was searched for clinical trials published between January 2000 and July 2018 using the search terms status epilepticus, refractory status epilepticus, super refractory status epilepticus, brivaracetam, clobazam, cannabidiol, eslicarbazepine, lacosamide, perampanel, rufinamide, stiripentol, and zonisamide. Trials that evaluated these agents in adults with SE, RSE, and SRSE were included. Brivaracetam use was identified in two retrospective reviews with success rates of 27% and 57%. One unsuccessful case report of cannabidiol use in SE was found. Four clobazam studies were identified in SE and RSE with success rates ranging from 25-100%. No evidence for the use of eslicarbazepine and zonisamide was found. Using the search terms for lacosamide identified 38 articles: 1 systematic review, 5 prospective studies, 15 retrospective reviews, and 17 case reports. Success rates and dosing varied, but studies that included focal or partial types of SE showed higher success rates. Five articles were identified regarding perampanel use in this setting. Three were retrospective reviews with success rates ranging from 17-60%, and two were case reports. Only one case report regarding the use of rufinamide was found; rufinamide titrated up to 4.4 mg/day allowed discontinuation of barbiturate and clobazam. One case report and two case series of stiripentol were found with reported efficacy between 60% and 100% in SRSE. Evidence is currently insufficient to support the use of these agents in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salia Farrokh
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, Division of Critical Care and Surgery Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - John Bon
- Department of Pharmacy, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio
| | | | - Eljim Tesoro
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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21
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Aicua-Rapun I, André P, Rossetti AO, Decosterd LA, Buclin T, Novy J. Intravenous brivaracetam in status epilepticus: Correlation between loading dose, plasma levels and clinical response. Epilepsy Res 2019; 149:88-91. [PMID: 30530123 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brivaracetam is available in intravenous formulation, and its favourable pharmacokinetic profile makes it a promising agent in the treatment of status epilepticus (SE). Its availability as an intravenous formulation and its favourable pharmacokinetic profile make it a promising agent in the treatment of status epilepticus. Our aim was to assess the correlation between BRV exposure and clinical response. We retrospectively studied all consecutive SE patients treated with BRV in our centre from September 2016 to March 2018. Correlations between loading doses, plasma concentrations, extrapolated exposures (approach based on a population pharmacokinetics model) and the clinical response (defined as BRV being able to resolve SE without the need of further treatment), were analysed. Among 14 patients, 7 (50%) responded to BRV. Responders received significantly greater median loading dosage per body weight (3.3 mg/kg) compared to non-responders (1.5 mg/kg) (p = 0.02); no responders had loading doses below 1.9 mg/kg. There was a significant correlation of the clinical response with calculated exposure parameters, whereas measured BRV concentrations did not. BRV doses higher than 1.9 mg/kg are associated with greater probabilities of response in SE; consequently, a minimum dose of 2 mg/kg seems advisable in treatment of SE. It is unclear whether increasing further BRV loading doses would provide any additional benefit. BRV concentrations performed outside the frame of a standardised protocol merely ascertain BRV administration. This study is however limited by its small sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Aicua-Rapun
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology Service, University Hospital (CHUV) and Faculty of Biology and Medicine of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pascal André
- Service of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital (CHUV) and Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andrea O Rossetti
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology Service, University Hospital (CHUV) and Faculty of Biology and Medicine of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laurent A Decosterd
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory, University Hospital (CHUV) and Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thierry Buclin
- Service of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital (CHUV) and Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jan Novy
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology Service, University Hospital (CHUV) and Faculty of Biology and Medicine of Lausanne, Switzerland.
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22
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Amengual-Gual M, Sánchez Fernández I, Wainwright MS. Novel drugs and early polypharmacotherapy in status epilepticus. Seizure 2018; 68:79-88. [PMID: 30473267 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Rescue medications for status epilepticus (SE) have a relatively high rate of failure. The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence for the efficacy of novel drugs and early polypharmacotherapy for SE. METHOD Literature review. RESULTS New drugs and treatment strategies aim to target the pathophysiology of SE in order to improve seizure control and outcomes. Changes at the synapse level during SE include a progressive decrease in synaptic GABAA receptors and increase in synaptic NMDA receptors. These changes tend to promote self-sustaining seizures. Current SE guidelines recommend a rapid stepwise treatment using benzodiazepines in monotherapy as the first-line treatment, targeting GABAA synaptic receptors. Novel treatment approaches target GABAA synaptic and extrasynaptic receptors with allopregnanolone, and NMDA receptors with ketamine. Novel rescue treatments used for SE include topiramate, brivaracetam, and perampanel, which are already marketed in epilepsy. Some available drugs not marketed for use in epilepsy have been used in the treatment of SE, and other agents are being studied for this purpose. Early polytherapy, most frequently combining a benzodiazepine with a second-line drug or an NMDA receptor antagonist, might potentially increase seizure control with relatively minor increase in side effects. Although many preclinical studies support novel drugs and early polytherapy in SE, human studies are scarce and inconclusive. Currently, evidence is lacking to recommend specific combinations of these new agents. CONCLUSIONS Novel drugs and strategies target the underlying pathophysiology of SE with the intent to improve seizure control and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Amengual-Gual
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Pediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain.
| | - Iván Sánchez Fernández
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Child Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Universidad de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark S Wainwright
- Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology. University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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23
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Strzelczyk A, Kay L, Bauer S, Immisch I, Klein KM, Knake S, Kowski A, Kunz R, Kurlemann G, Langenbruch L, Möddel G, Müller-Schlüter K, Reif PS, Schubert-Bast S, Steinhoff BJ, Steinig I, Willems LM, von Podewils F, Rosenow F. Use of brivaracetam in genetic generalized epilepsies and for acute, intravenous treatment of absence status epilepticus. Epilepsia 2018; 59:1549-1556. [PMID: 29943451 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate effectiveness, retention, and tolerability of brivaracetam (BRV) in genetic generalized epilepsies (GGE) in clinical practice. METHODS A multicenter, retrospective cohort study recruiting all patients that started BRV in 2016 and 2017. RESULTS A total of 61 patients (mean age = 29.8, range = 9-90 years, 41 female [67%]) were treated with BRV. They were difficult to control, with 2.4 failed antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in the past, taking 1.9 AEDs on average at baseline. The length of exposure to BRV ranged from 7 days to 24 months, with a mean retention time of 7.9 months, resulting in a total exposure time to BRV of 483 months. The retention rate was 82% at 3 months and 69% at 6 months. Efficacy at 3 months was 36% (50% responder rate), with 25% seizure-free for 3 months. Patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy showed a responder rate of 60%, with 40% being free of any seizures. Long-term 50% responder rate was present in 17 patients (28%; 11 seizure-free [18%]) for >6 months and in 14 patients (23%; 10 seizure-free [16%]) for >12 months. Treatment-emergent adverse events were observed in 26% of the patients, with the most common being somnolence, ataxia, and psychobehavioral adverse events. Use of intravenous BRV with bolus injection of 200-300 mg in two females with absence status epilepticus was well tolerated, but did not result in cessation of status epilepticus. SIGNIFICANCE Use of BRV in GGE is well tolerated, and 50% responder rates are similar to those observed in the regulatory trials for focal epilepsies. An immediate switch from levetiracetam (LEV) to BRV at a ratio of 15:1 is feasible. The occurrence of psychobehavioral adverse events seems less prominent than under LEV, and a switch to BRV can be considered in patients with LEV-induced adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lara Kay
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ilka Immisch
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Karl Martin Klein
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Knake
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Kowski
- Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rhina Kunz
- Epilepsy Center Greifswald and Department of Neurology, Ernst Moritz Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Gerhard Kurlemann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Westfälische Wilhelms University, Münster, Germany
| | - Lisa Langenbruch
- Epilepsy Center Münster-Osnabrück, Department of Neurology, Westfälische Wilhelms University, Münster, Germany
| | - Gabriel Möddel
- Epilepsy Center Münster-Osnabrück, Department of Neurology, Westfälische Wilhelms University, Münster, Germany
| | - Karen Müller-Schlüter
- Epilepsy Center for Children, University Hospital Neuruppin, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Philipp S Reif
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | - Isabel Steinig
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Laurent M Willems
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felix von Podewils
- Epilepsy Center Greifswald and Department of Neurology, Ernst Moritz Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
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24
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Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is one of the most frequent neurological emergencies. Despite this, understanding of its pathophysiology and evidence regarding its management is limited. Rapid, effective, and well-tolerated treatment to achieve seizure cessation is advocated to prevent brain damage or potentially lethal outcomes. The last two decades have witnessed an exponential increase in the number of available antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). These compounds, especially lacosamide and levetiracetam, in view of their intravenous formulation, have been increasingly prescribed in SE. These and other newer AEDs present a promising profile in terms of tolerability, with few centrally depressive effects, favorable pharmacokinetic properties, and fewer drug interactions than classical AEDs; conversely, they are more expensive. There is still no clear evidence to suggest a specific beneficial impact of newer AEDs on SE outcome, preventing any strong recommendation regarding their prescription in SE. Further comparative studies are urgently required to clarify their place and optimal use in the armamentarium of SE treatment.
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25
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Klein P, Diaz A, Gasalla T, Whitesides J. A review of the pharmacology and clinical efficacy of brivaracetam. Clin Pharmacol 2018; 10:1-22. [PMID: 29403319 PMCID: PMC5783144 DOI: 10.2147/cpaa.s114072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Brivaracetam (BRV; Briviact) is a new antiepileptic drug (AED) approved for adjunctive treatment of focal (partial-onset) seizures in adults. BRV is a selective, high-affinity ligand for synaptic vesicle 2A (SV2A) with 15- to 30-fold higher affinity than levetiracetam, the first AED acting on SV2A. It has high lipid solubility and rapid brain penetration, with engagement of the target molecule, SV2A, within minutes of administration. BRV has potent broad-spectrum antiepileptic activity in animal models. Phase I studies indicated BRV was well tolerated and showed a favorable pharmacokinetic profile over a wide dose range following single (10-1,000 mg) and multiple (200-800 mg/day) oral dosing. Three pivotal Phase III studies have demonstrated promising efficacy and a good safety and tolerability profile across doses of 50-200 mg/day in the adjunctive treatment of refractory focal seizures. Long-term data indicate that the response to BRV is sustained, with good tolerability and retention rate. BRV is highly effective in patients experiencing secondarily generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Safety data to date suggest a favorable psychiatric adverse effect profile in controlled studies, although limited postmarketing data are available. BRV is easy to use, with no titration and little drug-drug interaction. It can be initiated at target dose with no titration. Efficacy is seen on day 1 of oral use in a significant percentage of patients. Intravenous administration in a 2-minute bolus and 15-minute infusion is well tolerated. Here, we review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical data of BRV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Klein
- Mid-Atlantic Epilepsy and Sleep Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anyzeila Diaz
- Neurology Patient Value Unit, UCB Pharma, Smyrna, GA, USA
| | - Teresa Gasalla
- Neurology Patient Value Unit, UCB Pharma, Monheim am Rhein, Germany
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26
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Stephen LJ, Brodie MJ. Brivaracetam: a novel antiepileptic drug for focal-onset seizures. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2017; 11:1756285617742081. [PMID: 29399049 PMCID: PMC5784556 DOI: 10.1177/1756285617742081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brivaracetam (BRV), the n-propyl analogue of levetiracetam (LEV), is the latest antiepileptic drug (AED) to be licensed in Europe and the USA for the adjunctive treatment of focal-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization in patients aged 16 years or older. Like LEV, BRV binds to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), but BRV has more selective binding and a 15- to 30-fold higher binding affinity than LEV. BRV is more effective than LEV in slowing synaptic vesicle mobilization and the two AEDs may act at different binding sites or interact with different conformational states of the SV2A protein. In animal models, BRV provides protection against focal and secondary generalized seizures and has significant anticonvulsant effects in genetic models of epilepsy. The drug undergoes first-order pharmacokinetics with an elimination half-life of 7-8 h. Although BRV is metabolized extensively, the main circulating compound is unchanged BRV. Around 95% of metabolites undergo renal elimination. No dose reduction is required in renal impairment, but it is recommended that the daily dose is reduced by one-third in hepatic dysfunction that may prolong half-life. BRV has a low potential for drug interactions. The efficacy and tolerability of adjunctive BRV in adults with focal-onset seizures have been explored in six randomized, placebo-controlled studies. These showed significant efficacy outcomes for doses of 50-200 mg/day. The most common adverse events reported were headache, somnolence, dizziness, fatigue and nausea. Patients who develop psychiatric symptoms with LEV appear to be at risk of similar side effects with BRV, although preliminary data suggest that these issues are likely to be less frequent and perhaps less severe. As with all AEDs, a low starting dose and slow titration schedule help to minimize side effects and optimize seizure control and thereby quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda J. Stephen
- Epilepsy Unit, West Glasgow ACH, Dalnair St, Glasgow, G3 8SJ, Scotland
| | - Martin J. Brodie
- Epilepsy Unit, West Glasgow Ambulatory Care Hospital, Glasgow, Scotland
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