Investigating how anti-seizure medications affect brain excitability in epilepsy patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the impact of prescribed anti-seizure medications on cortical excitability in adults diagnosed with epilepsy. Participants will undergo transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) combined with electroencephalography (EEG) to measure TMS-evoked potentials (TEPs) during two sessions: one scheduled around the start of their medication and another 1-6 months later. The study will compare TEP measurements in participants when they are on medication versus when they are off medication to assess any changes in brain excitability over time.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients (≥ 18j) with epilepsy receiving a prescription for an anti-seizure medication for clinical reasons
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of any electrical implants (e.g. neurostimulator or drug delivery system) or any metallic implants anywhere in the head (excluding teeth)
* Increased intracranial pressure
* Uncontrolled psychiatric disorder
* Use of any kind of drug or alcohol, nicotine allowed
* For female participants: If pregnancy cannot be ruled out with sufficient certainty, a pregnancy test (urine) will be carried out before using TMS
* Inability to give consent

Where it's running

• University Hospital Bern
  Bern, Switzerland Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Cecilia Friedrichs-Maeder, MD, MSc. — Bern University Hospital
• Study coordinator: Cecilia Friedrichs-Maeder, MD, MSc.
• Email: cecilia.friedrichs-maeder@insel.ch
• Phone: +41 79 394 44 63

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.