Current Trials:

Photosensitivity Study

This study is for patients who have been diagnosed with photosensitive epilepsy (seizures triggered by flashing lights and photoepileptiform response on EEG to flashing lights)

Patients may be eligible to participate in this study if they:

• Are between the ages of 18 - 60
• Are taking 0 to 2 epilepsy drugs

Patients will not be able to participate if they:

• Have a history of non epileptic seizures
• Have an active CNS (central nervous system) infection, demyelinating (loss of nerve fiber covering) disease, degenerative neurological disease or progressive CNS disease
• Have a significant medical condition or significant laboratory abnormality
• Have a history of alcoholism, drug abuse or drug addiction within the past 12 months
• Are breastfeeding, or intend to become pregnant during the study

Procedures during the photosensitivity trial

The first procedure is a screening visit to determine whether the patient is a good candidate for the trial and if they have a photosensitive response on EEG.

Patients are then admitted to the hospital usually for 3 days. During this time, they will receive 1 dose of study drug and 2 doses of placebo (inactive medication). One dose is given each day. The patient does not know which day he is receiving placebo or active drug.

During the day, while in the hospital, an EEG with the flashing lights is being performed multiple times. In addition, blood tests, electrocardiograms and vitals signs are also being performed. If a patient is currently taking antiepileptic medication, this will continue during the study.

All testing and examinations, including the hospitalization are performed at no cost to the patient. Patients are also compensated for their time and participation in the study.