Using levetiracetam to reduce brain hyperactivity in Alzheimer's patients to enhance cognitive function
Treating hyperexcitability in Alzheimer's disease with levetiracetam to improve brain function and cognition
This study is looking at whether the anti-seizure medication levetiracetam can help improve brain function and slow down Alzheimer's disease in patients by testing different doses over a few weeks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10534731 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of levetiracetam, an anti-seizure medication, to treat hyperexcitability in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. The study will involve a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design, where participants will receive either low or high doses of the medication over four weeks. Patients will undergo thorough evaluations, including video-EEG monitoring and advanced imaging techniques, to assess brain function and cognitive abilities before and after treatment. The goal is to determine if this approach can improve cognitive function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mild Alzheimer's disease who may also exhibit signs of cortical hyperexcitability.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not exhibit cortical hyperexcitability may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promise in using levetiracetam for improving brain function in Alzheimer's patients, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shafi, Mouhsin — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Shafi, Mouhsin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.