What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may experience mild side effects such as headaches, scalp discomfort at the stimulation site, tingling, and facial muscle twitching. Serious adverse events are rare but can include seizures, which is a particular concern for epilepsy patients. Other common epilepsy treatments, such as antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), can have side effects including dizziness, fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive impairment. It is important to discuss these potential side effects with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several neuromodulation techniques for the treatment of epilepsy, which are similar to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in that they modulate neuronal activity. One notable example is Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), which involves the use of a device to send electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, thereby reducing seizure frequency. Another technique is Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS), which monitors brain activity and delivers electrical stimulation to prevent seizures before they start. These treatments offer alternatives for patients with epilepsy who do not respond well to traditional pharmacological therapies.

What other types of research exist?

Promising novel alternatives to TMS for epilepsy patients include Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). tDCS has shown potential in improving cognitive functions and reducing seizure frequency. VNS, an invasive procedure, has been effective in treatment-resistant epilepsy by modulating brain activity through electrical impulses delivered to the vagus nerve.

← Back to Search

Understanding Episodic Memory in Epilepsy

N/A

Waitlist Available

Led By Ueli Rutishauser, PhD

Research Sponsored by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Age ≥13

Intractable epilepsy, undergoing invasive monitoring

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up 5 years

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial involves monitoring brain cell activity and using small electrical pulses to understand how memories are formed and used. It targets patients with drug-resistant epilepsy because their treatment allows direct study of brain activity. By observing and stimulating brain cells, researchers aim to learn more about memory and decision-making.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for individuals aged 13 or older with intractable epilepsy who are already undergoing invasive monitoring. Participants should have an IQ over 70 and be able to understand and perform tasks on a computer by pressing buttons. Those unable to complete the tasks due to cognitive, psychological limits, or pain cannot join.

What is being tested?

The study aims to understand how humans learn, recall information, and make decisions using various devices: Cedrus response pad for inputs; Adtech micro-electrodes, Neurolynx system for brain activity recording; Blackrock stimulator possibly for stimulating specific brain areas during tests.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this trial involves non-drug interventions focused on monitoring and testing brain function rather than treatment side effects may include discomfort from wearing the equipment or potential risks associated with invasive monitoring as determined by clinicians.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I am 13 years old or older.

Select...

I have severe epilepsy and am undergoing special monitoring.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ 5 years

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~5 years

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and 5 years for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Decision Making (Firing Rates)

Decision Making (Power)

Decision Making (Timing)

+4 more

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Behavioral TestingExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Behavioral and Neuronal Recordings

0 / 2Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Epilepsy treatments aim to modulate neuronal activity to prevent seizures. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, potentially reducing seizure frequency by altering cortical excitability. This noninvasive method is particularly useful for patients who do not respond well to medication. Other common treatments include antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) that stabilize neuronal membranes and reduce excitability, and surgical interventions that remove or isolate the seizure focus. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for epilepsy patients as it helps tailor treatment plans to individual needs, improving outcomes and quality of life.