SIU Med School Is Part of National Study of Epilepsy

Individuals with epilepsy are being recruited by Southern Illinois University School of Medicine as part of a national study of two different drugs to determine whether either affects cognitive function when used for treatment of seizure. The drugs, lamotrigine and topiramate, are being evaluated by SIU's neurology department as part of a 25-site study.

"About one percent of the U.S. population has epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological conditions," said Dr. M. Steven Evans, professor of neurology and associate director of SIU's Center for Epilepsy, who is directing the study. "While both of these drugs are approved by the FDA for treatment of epileptic seizures, they also may have subtle effects on thinking, motor control and memory. The results of this study will allow us to better know the overall effects and better able to choose the right medication for a patient."

Volunteers age 18 and older are being sought. Participants should be generally healthy, but have partial seizures for at least six months and be taking one of the epileptic drugs, carbamazepine or phenytoin. Each participant will receive physical and neurological examinations and other tests, including extensive testing for cognition, mood and quality of life, before beginning and during six follow-up visits over 18 weeks. There is no charge to the participants for the tests and medications related to the study, which is sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline. Results will be shared with the participant's personal physician.

If you are interested in participating in the study, contact Laura Cation, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, by calling 217-545-3013 weekdays or emailing lcation@siumed.edu. Details also are posted online at http://www.siumed.edu/physurg/studies/.

-30-