See if stopping antiseizure meds after being seizure‑free helps patients with epilepsy
Official title: Study Testing Outcomes After Planned Discontinuation of AntiSeizure Medication
Run by University of Michigan · NCT07750496 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether stopping antiseizure medications after a period of seizure freedom is safe and feasible for people with epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 2029 |
| Study ends | August 2029 |
| Registry record updated | August 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07750496 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with epilepsy who have been seizure-free for a defined period and are currently taking at least one antiseizure medication.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with higher risk of seizure recurrence or certain exclusion criteria may not benefit from discontinuation.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional Phase 4 study evaluates discontinuing antiseizure medications in adults with epilepsy who have been seizure-free for a defined period. Participants must meet criteria including a minimum seizure-free duration and, for single-therapy patients, a calculated low risk of recurrence. The trial aims to determine whether stopping medication can maintain safety while reducing medication burden and side effects. Researchers will monitor seizure activity, adverse events, and overall acceptability of discontinuation in routine care settings. The lead sponsor is the University of Michigan, with collaboration from the National Institute on Aging, and the study is based at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients who discontinue medication may maintain seizure control with fewer side effects and a lower treatment burden.
How similar studies have gone: Prior evidence suggests that seizure risk after stopping medications varies; this study aims to clarify feasibility and acceptability in a real-world setting.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Provision of signed and dated informed consent form * Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study * Diagnosis of epilepsy * At least 2 years since participants most recent seizure * At most 35% calculated 1-year post-discontinuation seizure risk, based upon the existing multivariable calculator if they are on only 1 ASM, otherwise no such restriction if they are more than 1 ASM * Willingness to adhere to the study intervention * Taking at least 1 antiseizure medication prior to enrollment Exclusion Criteria: * Current pregnancy or planned pregnancy during the study period * History of epilepsy surgery * Large space-occupying radiographic lesion such as a large cortical tumor, large artery stroke, or encephalomalacia from traumatic brain injury. * Subject has any other clinically significant conditions or circumstances that in the judgment of the investigator or treating clinician should preclude study participation. Please note: The researchers will ask participants not to drive for 2 months after ASM discontinuation if on monotherapy, and exercise caution while driving if stopping one antiseizure medication but remaining on others
Where it's running
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University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Samuel Terman, MD, MS — University of Michigan
- Study coordinator: Samuel Terman, MD, MS
- Email: sterman@umich.edu
- Phone: 734-936-9020
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.