Levetiracetam for the Prophylaxis of Migraine in Adults

Abstract

Migraine is the second most common primary headache disorder after tension-type headache and is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Cortical spreading depression involves neuronal excitation and inhibition and is involved in pathophysiology of migraine. Many anti-epileptic drugs act by inhibiting Cortical Spreading Depression and block desensitization. Anti-convulsants are commonly used in Migraine prophylaxis and the ones being more effective than placebo include Sodium Valproate and Topiramate. Levetiracetam has unique mechanism as it targets hyper-excitable neurons by binding to synaptic vesicle protein. This results in inhibition of neurotransmitter release thus decreases hyper-excitability. Levetiracetam has minimal side effect profile (dizziness, somnolence and mood changes) and it can be well tolerated by patients. In this review, a total of seven studies were included (four open-label trials and three randomized-control trials) which evaluated the role of Levetiracetam in the prophylaxis of migraine in adult patients. On review of this evidence, Levetiracetam appears to be effective in treating migraine with and without aura and is considered safe because of its limited side effects. There was a significant reduction in the frequency, severity, and duration of migraine with a high responder rate. Levetiracetam was well tolerated with minimal side effects and no reported interactions. However, larger randomized controlled trials are needed and these studies should be done on special population to see the outcomes. In addition, studies for extended-release formulations should also be done.

Keywords: adult; levetiracetam; migraine; prophylaxis; review.