Maximal electroshock model

Felbamate is effective in both the maximal electroshock and pentylenetetrazol seizure models. Clinically relevant concentrations of felbamate inhibit N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-evoked responses and potentiate gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-evoked responses in wholecell, voltage-clamp recordings of cultured rat hippocampal neurons. This dual action on excitatory and inhibitory transmitter response may contribute to the wide spectrum of action of the drug in seizure models. 

Copper complexes listed in Table 6.22 have been reported [324-327] to have anticonvulsant activity in the /rmol/kg dose range following subcutaneous or intraperitoneal administration to rodent models of grand mal or petit mal seizures, maximal electroshock- or pentylenetetrazol-induced seizures [328, 329]. Some of these compounds had a rapid onset of action, within 30 min following administration, and the anticonvulsant effect persisted for up to 8 h. Others had a delayed onset of action, approximately 4 h, with a prolonged effect lasting for up to 24 h. Most of these complexes were found to be more effective in the pentylenetetrazol-induced seizure model, but lipophilic complexes were found to be effective in both models of seizure. 

A number of animal models are currently available for anticonvulsant screening [13,14]. Two basic models used are Maximal Electroshock Test (MEST) and Subcutaneous Pentylenetetrazole Seizure Threshold Test (ScMET). Anticonvulsant activity in MEST predicts the ability of the testing material or compound in preventing the spread of seizure discharge and effectiveness in the treatment of grandmal seizures, while activity in ScMET predicts the ability to elevate seizure threshold and effectiveness in myoclonic seizures. 

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