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Updated: May 22, 2026

Electrophoretic Delivery of γ-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) into Epileptic Focus Prevents Seizures in Mice
Published on: May 16, 2019
Tiagabine add-on for drug-resistant partial epilepsy
Jennifer Pulman1, Anthony G Marson, Jane L Hutton
1Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Cochrane Epilepsy Group, Liverpool, UK. jennifer.pulman@liv.ac.uk.
Tiagabine as an add-on therapy significantly reduces seizure frequency in drug-resistant epilepsy. However, it is associated with adverse effects like dizziness and fatigue, impacting treatment adherence.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Epilepsy affects 0.5-1% of the population, with nearly 30% exhibiting drug resistance.
- Tiagabine is a newer antiepileptic drug evaluated as an adjunct therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess tiagabine's efficacy and safety as an add-on treatment for drug-resistant localisation-related seizures.
- Evaluate effects on seizure frequency, adverse events, cognition, and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled add-on trials.
- Searched Cochrane Epilepsy Group Register, CENTRAL, and MEDLINE up to November 2011.
- Included trials with a minimum eight-week treatment period; data extracted independently.
Main Results:
- Tiagabine significantly increased the likelihood of a 50% or greater seizure frequency reduction (RR 3.16).
- Higher treatment withdrawal rates were observed with tiagabine (RR 1.81).
- Significantly associated adverse effects included dizziness, fatigue, nervousness, and tremor.
Conclusions:
- Tiagabine is effective in reducing seizure frequency in drug-resistant epilepsy.
- Adverse effects are a concern and may impact treatment continuation.
- Limited data suggest no significant impact on cognition or quality of life.
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