N-(anilinomethyl)-p-isopropoxyphenylsuccinimide potentiates the anticonvulsant action of phenobarbital and valproate in the mouse maximal electroshock-induced seizure model

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of N-(anilinomethyl)-p-isopropoxyphenylsuccinimide (AMIPPS) on the protective action of carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and valproate in the mouse maximal electroshock seizure model. Results indicate that AMIPPS administered separately (i.p., at doses of 75 and 150 mg/kg), significantly elevated the threshold for electroconvulsions in mice. Moreover, AMIPPS (37.5 mg/kg) significantly enhanced the anticonvulsant activity of phenobarbital and valproate, but not that of carbamazepine or phenytoin in the maximal electroshock seizure test in mice. AMIPPS (18.75 mg/kg) had no impact on the antiseizure action of phenobarbital and valproate against maximal electroshock seizure-induced seizures in mice. Pharmacokinetic experiments revealed that AMIPPS significantly increased total brain valproate concentrations and it had no impact on total brain concentrations of phenobarbital in mice. In conclusion, the enhanced antielectroshock action of phenobarbital by AMIPPS and lack of pharmacokinetic interaction make the combination of AMIPPS with phenobarbital of pivotal importance for further experimental and clinical studies. Although AMIPPS potentiated the anticonvulsant action of valproate in the maximal electroshock seizure test, the caution is advised when combining these drugs due to the risk of pharmacokinetic interactions. The combinations of AMIPPS with carbamazepine and phenytoin are neutral from a preclinical viewpoint.