Lacosamide Increases Absence Seizures and Anxiety-Like Behavior in WAG/Rij Rat Model

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of antiepileptic drug lacosamide on spontaneous absence seizures and anxiety in genetic absence-epilepsy WAG/Rij rats. Methods: Tripolar electrodes were placed in the cortex of WAG/Rij rats in each group using a stereotaxic instrument. Saline (4 mL/kg) was administered to the rats in the control group, while 5, 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg lacosamide was administered intraperitoneally to the rats in lacosamide groups. After lacosamide injections, electroencephalography recording was taken for 180 minutes. Then, the open field test was performed for 5 minutes. Results: The total number and duration of spikes and wave discharges increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner after lacosamide injection in all lacosamide groups compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Intermittent loss of clinical righting reflex was observed after absence seizures and convulsions also developed. Epileptic seizure activity with simultaneous sharp spikes was observed in the electroencephalography recording, and a dose-dependent seizure activity increase was observed (P