[Effect of verapamil on focal epileptic activity in the rat cerebral cortex]

Experiments were carried out on 64 nonanesthetized male Wistar rats (200-220 g). Epileptic foci were induced by the application of a filter paper saturated with a solution of benzylpenicillin sodium salt (12,000 and 20,000 U/ml) to the sensorimotor cortex. It was shown that subsequent intraperitoneal administration of verapamil (5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) during steady focal epileptic activity (EpA) resulted in the suppression of EpA in most animals. The antiepileptic effect of verapamil was manifested in a reduced frequency and amplitude of spike discharges, decreased power of epileptic foci and less frequent appearance of seizure (ictal) discharges. The role of Ca canals of neuronal membranes in the pathogenesis of epilepsy is discussed.