How epilepsy affects brain chemicals and breathing
Part of Brain & nervous system clinical trials.
This study looks at how epilepsy affects a chemical in the brainstem that helps control breathing and alertness. It uses a special PET scan and breathing tests to measure this in people with hard-to-control seizures.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are between 18 and 55 years old.
- You have focal epilepsy or a type called idiopathic generalized epilepsy.
- Your seizures are not well controlled even after trying at least two antiseizure medications.
- You have had 3 or more seizures with convulsions or loss of consciousness in the last 18 months.
- You do not have certain heart, lung, or sleep conditions, and you are not taking specific antidepressants.
- You are not pregnant, not breastfeeding, and use effective contraception if you are of childbearing age.
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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