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Published on: May 16, 2019
Development of perampanel in epilepsy
A Satlin1, L D Kramer, A Laurenza
1Eisai Neuroscience Product Creation Unit, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677, USA. andrew_satlin@eisai.com
Perampanel, a selective AMPA-type glutamate receptor antagonist, effectively treats partial-onset seizures. This first-in-class antiepileptic drug shows efficacy and tolerability in refractory cases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)-type glutamate receptors are crucial for cortical glutamatergic transmission.
- Glutamatergic neurotransmission plays a significant role in epilepsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate perampanel as an adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures.
- To assess the efficacy and tolerability of a novel AMPA-receptor antagonist in treatment-refractory epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- Development of perampanel, a selective, non-competitive AMPA-receptor antagonist.
- Phase III clinical trials adhering to antiepileptic drug development guidelines.
Main Results:
- Perampanel demonstrated efficacy and tolerability in reducing treatment-refractory partial-onset seizures.
- This marks the first AED targeting glutamate-mediated neurotransmission with proven success in Phase III trials.
Conclusions:
- Perampanel is an effective adjunctive treatment for partial-onset seizures.
- The drug has received approval in the EU and US for this indication.
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