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

INTRODUCTION: Despite 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 COVERED: In 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 OPINION: To 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.