Diazepam for Epilepsy

Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byJeffrey Britton, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May be covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Phase 1 & 2

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Mayo Clinic

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?This trial aims to see if diazepam can reduce seizures in patients with epilepsy linked to high levels of GAD65 antibodies. Diazepam helps calm brain activity by boosting the effect of a natural calming chemical, GABA. This approach is being tested because these patients often don't respond to usual treatments. Diazepam has been used as an anticonvulsant, but its usage has recently decreased.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who have tried at least two anti-seizure medications without success. Participants must show high levels of GAD65 antibodies in their blood or CSF and not have changed their treatment in the last month. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with other seizure-related antibodies, alternative causes for epilepsy, current benzodiazepine use, or regular opiate use cannot join.

Treatment Details

The study is testing if diazepam can reduce seizure frequency in patients whose epilepsy is associated with high levels of GAD65 antibodies. Diazepam's effectiveness as a treatment option will be evaluated by monitoring changes in seizure occurrences.

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: GAD65 Associated EpilepsyExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Subjects diagnosed with GAD65 associated epilepsy, serum high-titer GAD65 positivity, trialed and failed at least 2 anti-seizure medications, at least 4 seizures per month will be started on diazepam.