Protective effects of graded doses of Gabapentin on Aminophylline-induced experimental status epilepticus in mice

Abstract

Background: Methylxanthines routinely consumed as beverages and available over the counter, are popular as Central Nervous System [CNS] stimulants and are potentially ictgenic in higher doses. Clinically such seizures are reported to be resistant to treatment with conventional anti-epileptic drugs [AEDs] and may be fatal. Purpose: Present study evaluated the effects of gabapentin in aminophylline-induced recurrent generalized seizures [RGSs] which is a model of human status epilepticus[SE]. Methods: The protective effects of increasing doses [100, 200, 500 mg/kg] of gabapentin [GBP] administered by intraperitoneal route [i.p.] were tested on aminophylline [AMPH]-induced [280 mg/kg] seizures in male albino Swiss mice. Results: Results showed a significant delay in the onset of myoclonic jerks and tonic seizures [p Conclusion: The present study using single, doses of GBP showed incomplete protective effects, against AMPH-induced convulsions indicating partial protective effects of GBP. Data on mortality demonstrates fatal outcome of AMPH-induced convulsions depicting human status-epilepticus [SE]. Further studies involving chronic administration of GBP alone and in combination with other AEDs, to evaluate complete protective effects against 24 hr mortality, may be suggested. doi : 10.5214/ans.0972.7531.2009.160404 Competing interests: None. Source of Funding: None Received Date: 23 July 2009 Revised Date: 01 Sept 2009 Accepted Date: 19 Sept 2009