Could an epilepsy drug sharpen memory in Alzheimer's? small trial explores brain calming
NCT ID NCT03875638
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This completed phase 2 trial tested whether levetiracetam, a drug used for epilepsy, could reduce abnormal brain overactivity and improve cognitive function in 58 people with early Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment. Participants received either the drug or a placebo, and researchers measured brain activity with EEG and TMS along with thinking tests. The goal was to see if calming hyperexcitable brain networks could lead to better memory and daily function.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Levetiracetam (an epilepsy medication)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a new way to improve memory and thinking in early Alzheimer's by calming overactive brain circuits.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase trial (58 participants) that may not show clear benefits. Levetiracetam can cause side effects like dizziness or sleepiness, and results may not apply to all Alzheimer's patients.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ALZHEIMER DISEASE are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States