Brivaracetam: a new drug in development for epilepsy and neuropathic pain

Background: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder with a worldwide prevalence estimated to be 0.5 – 1.0% of the population. Many potent antiepileptic drugs (AED) have been used for treatment but still about 30% of patients are resistant to current AEDs. Some AEDs are also used for the treatment of neuropathic pain. Objective: The aim of this report is to present preclinical and clinical studies of brivaracetam (UCB-34714), a new drug developed by UCB Pharma. Methods: Published results of preclinical studies in several animal models of epilepsy, neuropathic pain, essential tremor and results of Phase I and II evaluations of brivaracetam have been analysed. Results/conclusion: Brivaracetam represents a new mechanism of action being a ligand of synaptic vesicle protein 2A. It is undergoing Phase III evaluation after a successful Phase II programme in which was effective as an adjunctive treatment in partial-onset epilepsy (50 mg/day). It is well tolerated, without serious adverse side effects.