The impact of anti-seizure medications on electroencephalogram (EEG) results

IntroductionDespite recent advances in neuroimaging and genetics, electroencephalography (EEG) continues to play a central role in the diagnosis and management of epilepsy. One application of EEG is called pharmaco-EEG. This technique is highly sensitive in detecting the effects of drugs on brain functioning and shows potential in predicting the efficacy and tolerability of anti-seizure medications (ASMs).Areas coveredIn this narrative review, the authors discuss the most salient data concerning the effects of different ASMs on EEG. The authors aim to provide a clear and concise overview of the current state of research in this area, while also identifying opportunities for future investigation.Expert opinionTo date, pharmaco-EEG does not appear to be clinically reliable for predicting treatment response in epilepsy, as the literature is limited by underreporting of negative results, a lack of controls in many studies and insufficient direct replication of previous findings. Future research should focus on controlled interventional studies, which are currently lacking.

Automated summary

Despite advances in neuroimaging and genetics, electroencephalography (EEG) remains important for epilepsy diagnosis and management. Pharmaco-EEG is a sensitive technique for detecting drug effects on brain functioning and has potential in predicting the efficacy and tolerability of anti-seizure medications (ASMs).