Levetiracetam is associated with decrease in subclinical epileptiform discharges and improved cognitive functions in...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Subclinical epileptiform discharges (SEDs) are prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• The efficacy of antiepileptic drugs for SEDs in ASD remains uncertain.
• This study addresses the need for evidence-based treatments for neurological comorbidities in ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of levetiracetam on SEDs in children with ASD.
• To evaluate the impact of levetiracetam on behavioral and cognitive functions in pediatric ASD patients.
• To provide a physician-blinded, prospective, randomized controlled trial for robust evidence.

Main Methods:

• 70 children (4-6 years) with ASD and SEDs were randomized into two groups: levetiracetam plus educational training (treatment) or educational training alone (control).
• Assessments included the Psychoeducational Profile (PEP-3), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC) at baseline and 6 months.
• 24-hour electroencephalograms (EEGs) were recorded, and patient satisfaction was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed significant improvements in PEP-3, CARS, and ABC scores from baseline.
• The levetiracetam group demonstrated significantly higher PEP-3 scores and lower CARS and ABC scores compared to the control group at 6 months.
• EEG normalization rates were significantly higher in the levetiracetam treatment group.

Conclusions:

• Levetiracetam shows efficacy in managing SEDs in pediatric patients with ASD.
• The study suggests levetiracetam is associated with improvements in behavioral and cognitive outcomes in children with ASD and SEDs.
• Levetiracetam represents a potential therapeutic option for co-occurring epilepsy and behavioral challenges in ASD.