Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2025
Electrophoretic Delivery of γ-aminobutyric Acid GABA into Epileptic Focus Prevents Seizures in Mice
Published on: May 16, 2019
Felbamate as a therapeutic alternative to drug-resistant genetic generalized epilepsy: a systematic review and
Yitao Ma1, Matthew Kaminski2, Robert Crutcher3
1Department of Neurology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA. mayt21054@gmail.com.
Introduction:
The effect of felbamate (FBM) on genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE) remains largely unknown. The utilization of FBM has been limited due to its potential risk of aplastic anemia and hepatic failure. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of FBM in the treatment of drug-resistant GGE.
Methods:
We searched the databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar, to identify cases of GGE treated with FBM. Data on outcomes and adverse events were extracted from these studies.
Results:
The literature search yielded 9 studies with 166 cases in which FBM was used as an adjunct therapy to treat drug-resistant GGE. The pooled responder rate to FBM was 65% (95% confidence interval CI, 51-80). 17% (95% CI, 3-31) achieved seizure freedom. 81% (95% CI, 60-100) of patients with Epilepsy with myoclonic atonic seizures were responders. Adverse events were reported in 40% (95% CI, 26-54) of patients.
Conclusions:
Patients with drug-resistant GGE achieved good responses to FBM. The high heterogeneity between studies calls for further research with large-scale, randomized controlled trials. Given the rare reports of idiosyncratic reactions of aplastic anemia and hepatic failure, intense laboratory monitoring and a slower titration schedule are recommended.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:14Antiepileptic Drugs: Glutamate Antagonists
01:18Antiepileptic Drugs: GABAergic Pathway Potentiators
The key GABA pathway potentiators used in epilepsy management are as follows.
Benzodiazepines are a well-known class of drugs used for...
01:20Antiepileptic Drugs: Modulators of Neurotransmitter Release Mediated by SV2A Protein
SV2A is a transmembrane glycoprotein located predominantly in the brain, modulating the release of neurotransmitters for neuronal communication. Both levetiracetam and brivaracetam exhibit a high affinity for...
01:20Antiepileptic Drugs: Potassium Channel Activators
Ezogabine has gained approval as an adjunctive treatment...
01:08Antiepileptic Drugs: Sodium Channel Blockers
Sodium channel blockers modulate ion channels, particularly voltage-gated sodium channels. They block only sodium ion movement.
Among the most commonly prescribed antiepileptic drugs are...
01:17Antiepileptic Drugs: Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers exert their antiepileptic effects by targeting T-type calcium channels, which are integral to transmitting nerve signals in the central nervous system. These channels allow the passage of calcium ions, which are vital for neuronal communication. By inhibiting T-type calcium channels, calcium channel blockers effectively reduce the release of neurotransmitters and...