Using anti-seizure medications to prevent complications after traumatic brain injuries in older adults

Traumatic Brain Injury Anti-Seizure Prophylaxis in the Medicare Program

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11127468

This study is looking at how anti-seizure medications can help older adults, especially those with Alzheimer’s or related conditions, who have had a traumatic brain injury, while also keeping an eye on any serious side effects to make sure they get the best care possible.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11127468 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of anti-seizure medications (ASM) for older adults who have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI). It focuses on understanding the balance between the potential life-saving benefits of these medications and their serious side effects, particularly in older adults with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). By analyzing Medicare claims data and linking it with other health records, the research aims to improve how TBI severity is classified and to provide better guidance on ASM use in this vulnerable population. The goal is to enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes for older adults recovering from TBIs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults aged 65 and above who have suffered a traumatic brain injury, especially those with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 years old or those who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatment protocols for older adults at risk of seizures after a traumatic brain injury.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited existing research on this specific approach, the use of linked data sources for improving treatment decisions in older adults has shown promise in other studies.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.