Levetiracetam for Neuroprotection Against Corticosteroid-induced Hippocampal Dysfunction: A Proof of Concept Study
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2005-11-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
The purpose of this research is to determine whether the memory impairment and manic symptoms
(feelings of agitation, overexcitement or hyperactivity) typically seen in those on
corticosteroid therapy is decreased with a seizure medication called levetiracetam compared
to placebo (an inactive substance). Since increased levels of cortisol (the body's natural
corticosteroid) in the body are frequently associated with memory impairment interventions
that may prevent or reverse this are of great importance.
It is hypothesized that patients who are scheduled to receive prescription corticosteroid
therapy who are given levetiracetam pretreatment will show lesser memory impairment and manic
symptoms than those receiving placebo.