Could an epilepsy drug sharpen memory in Alzheimer's? small trial explores brain calming

NCT ID NCT03875638

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Cognitive Dysfunction

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DEMENTIA ALZHEIMER DISEASE DEMENTIA OF ALZHEIMER TYPE MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

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