Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
Review
. 2024 Jun;25(9):1121-1130.
doi: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2373350. Epub 2024 Jun 28.

Evaluating bexicaserin for the treatment of developmental epileptic encephalopathies

Affiliations
Review

Evaluating bexicaserin for the treatment of developmental epileptic encephalopathies

Giovanni Battista Dell'isola et al. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2024 Jun.

Abstract

Introduction: Developmental epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) pose significant challenges due to their refractory nature and limited treatment options. Despite advancements in genetic understanding, effective therapies targeting underlying pathophysiology are lacking. Serotoninergic dysfunction has been implicated in epilepsy, sparking interest in serotonin as a therapeutic target.

Area covered: This article explores the potential of bexicaserin, a selective 5-HT2C receptor agonist, as an adjunctive antiseizure medication in DEEs. Bexicaserin is thought to modulate GABAergic neurotransmission, suppressing central hyperexcitability. Preclinical studies demonstrate its efficacy across various seizure models. Clinical trials, including the Pacific Study, reveal promising results in reducing motor seizures. However, challenges such as adverse effects and treatment discontinuation underscore the need for further investigation.

Expert opinion: The efficacy of 5-HT2C serotoninergic agonists, validated in preclinical and clinical studies, highlights serotonin's role in DEEs. Bexicaserin offers new therapeutic possibilities, potentially synergizing with existing antiseizure medications. Polypharmacotherapy, targeting distinct pathways, may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Monitoring pharmacological interactions and addressing central nervous system comorbidities are crucial for optimizing treatment strategies. Further research is needed to elucidate bexicaserin's mechanisms and potential antiepileptogenic effects.

Keywords: 5-HT2C; Bexicaserin (LP352); antiseizure medication (ASM); developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE); drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE); serotonin.

PubMed Disclaimer

Similar articles

MeSH terms

Substances

LinkOut - more resources