Influence of propafenone on the anticonvulsant activity of various novel antiepileptic drugs in the mouse maximal electroshock model

Abstract

Background: The main mechanism of action of propafenone (antiarrhythmic drug) involves the inhibition of the fast inward sodium current during phase 0 of the action potential. Sodium channel-blocking activity is also characteristic for some antiepileptic drugs. Therefore, it could be assumed that propafenone may also affect seizures. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of propafenone on the protective effect of oxcarbazepine, lamotrigine, topiramate and pregabalin against the maximal electroshock-induced seizures in mice.

Methods: Anticonvulsant activity of propafenone was assessed with the maximal electroshock seizure threshold (MEST) test. Influence of propafenone on the anticonvulsant activity of antiepileptic drugs was estimated in the mouse maximal electroshock model (MES). Drug-related adverse effects were determined in the chimney test (motor coordination) and passive-avoidance task (long-term memory). Brain concentrations of antiepileptics were assessed by fluorescence polarization immunoassay.

Results: Propafenone at doses 60-90mg/kg significantly increased the threshold of seizures, in turn at doses 5-50mg/kg did not affect this parameter. Administration of propafenone at the subthreshold dose of 50mg/kg increased antielectroshock activity of oxcarbazepine, topiramate and pregabalin, but not that of lamotrigine. As regards adverse effects, propafenone alone and in combination with antiepileptic drugs did not significantly impair motor coordination or long-term memory in mice. Propafenone (50mg/kg) significantly increased the brain level of pregabalin. Brain concentrations of topiramate and oxcarbazepine were not affected.

Conclusion: Our findings show that propafenone has own anticonvulsant action and enhances efficacy of oxcarbazepine, topiramate and pregabalin, but not that of lamotrigine, at least in experimental condition.

Keywords: Interactions; Maximal electroshock seizures; New antiepileptic drugs; Propafenone.