According to a study published in the April 10, 2007 issue of Neurology, an investigational drug with a novel mechanism of action is safe and effective. The new drug, retigabine, acts through a novel mechanism, different from the existing antiepileptic drugs. It acts by opening potassium channels. The drug has been tested in partial onset seizures that have not been controlled adequately with other drugs. The highest study dose taking patients had an average drop of 35% in epilepsy frequency.
The drug was tolerated well and side effects observed included drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, amnesia etc. The drug was developed by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. The study was sponsored and conducted by Wyeth. The rights of the molecule now belong to Valeant Pharmaceuticals. The drug is currently in late-stage of Phase III of development as an add-on therapy for partial onset seizures.