Retigabine

Retigabine is a novel antiseizure drug that acts through potassium channels and has activity in a broad range of animal models of epilepsy. It is also effective in several preclinical pain models. The drug has been extensively studied in phase I and II studies, with very promising results. The maximal tolerated dose for most patients is 1,200 mg/day. Adverse effects have been largely CNS-related and mild; most have occurred during the titration periods in the various studies. At present, retigabine is in two pivotal phase III studies.