This month, the FDA approved XCOPRI, a new medication to treat partial-onset seizures in adults. This type of seizure is often difficult to control, so we are thrilled to see this treatment advancement.

Additional promising research news includes the advancement of a method of predicting seizure risk. Also, for individuals affected by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a new Amazon Alexa skill offers engaging, interactive play options.

Summaries of these research discoveries and news highlights are below.

Research Discoveries & News

• New Treatment: The FDA approved SK Lifescience’s XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) to treat partial-onset seizures in adults. Learn More
• Seizure Prediction: The new seizure risk assessment tool from Rice University, EpiSAT, received its first validation. The automated machine-learning algorithm correctly identified changes in seizure risk — improvement, worsening, or no change — in more than 87% of cases by analyzing seizure diaries. This prediction rate is as good or better than specialized epilepsy clinicians predicting seizure risk using patient histories. Learn More
• New Technology: Eisai Inc. launched Ella the Jellyfish, the first Amazon Alexa skill designed for those affected by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This skill features capabilities such as interactive play, listening, and creative activities. Learn More
• Status Epilepticus: New findings from a team, which included CURE Scientific Advisory Members Dr. Jaideep Kapur and Dr. Dan Lowenstein, reveal that levetiracetam (Keppra), fosphenytoin (Cerebyx), and valproate (Depakote) are equally safe and effective in treating patients with status epilepticus. Learn More
• Post-Traumatic Epilepsy: Researchers from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) developed a cell therapy to improve memory and prevent seizures in mice following traumatic brain injury. In the study, the UCI team transplanted a cell type that can generate inhibitory brain activity into mouse brains. This process formed new connections with injured brain cells and prevented the mice from developing seizures. Learn More
• Febrile Seizures: A study examined the cognitive functioning in children ages 4-5 who experienced febrile seizures. The research found that children with early onset of febrile seizures (especially those with recurrent febrile seizures) may be at heightened risk for poorer verbal and processing speed function, and possibly at risk for other cognitive dysfunctions. The findings suggest that these children would likely benefit from neuropediatric and neuropsychological follow-up, regardless of if they are still having febrile seizures. Learn More

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