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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
07:01
Electrophoretic Delivery of γ-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) into Epileptic Focus Prevents Seizures in Mice
Published on: May 16, 2019
Nanocarrier-based targeting strategies in epilepsy: addressing pathophysiological barriers
Abhishek Chauhan1, Ankush Kumar1, Ankit Awasthi1
1Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab 140401, India.
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|July 23, 2026
Summary
Nanocarriers offer a promising solution for epilepsy treatment by improving drug delivery to the brain. These advanced systems enhance antiepileptic drug efficacy and reduce side effects, paving the way for better seizure control.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Epilepsy affects 50 million globally, characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal neuronal activity.
- Conventional epilepsy treatments face limitations like poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, drug resistance, and adverse effects.
- Nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems are emerging as a novel approach to overcome these therapeutic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems for epilepsy treatment.
- To critically analyze formulation strategies, BBB transport mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of various nanocarriers.
- To evaluate the clinical progress and future prospects of nanomedicine in managing epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed articles, patents, and clinical studies was performed.
- Evaluated lipid-based, vesicular, polymeric, dendrimer, and inorganic nanocarriers.
- Analyzed formulation, BBB transport, therapeutic applications, and clinical progress.
Main Results:
- Nanocarriers improve solubility, stability, bioavailability, and targeted brain delivery of antiepileptic drugs.
- Various nanocarriers (liposomes, nanoparticles, dendrimers) show enhanced BBB penetration, prolonged action, reduced toxicity, and improved seizure control in preclinical studies.
- Challenges include large-scale manufacturing, long-term safety, regulatory hurdles, and clinical translation.
Conclusions:
- Nanomedicine offers a promising strategy for targeted brain drug delivery in epilepsy, overcoming conventional therapy limitations.
- Further research is needed to optimize nanocarrier formulations and rigorously evaluate safety.
- Clinical validation is crucial for the successful translation of nanocarrier-based epilepsy therapies into practice.
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