Basic Information:

• Name: Stiripentol

• CAS Number: 49763-96-4

• Molecular Formula: C14H18O3

• Molecular Weight: 234.29 g/mol

Pharmacological Effects:

Stiripentol is an anticonvulsant medication, primarily used in the management of epilepsy, specifically in patients with Dravet syndrome in combination with clobazam and valproate. The exact mechanism of action of stiripentol is not fully understood, but it is believed to have several pharmacological effects:

1.     GABAergic Modulation:

o    Stiripentol enhances the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. It potentiates the duration of GABA-A receptor-mediated inhibitory postsynaptic currents, enhancing its anticonvulsant effects.

2.     Metabolic Inhibition:

o    It inhibits certain enzyme activities in the liver, such as CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. This inhibition affects the metabolism of other anticonvulsant medications, potentially increasing their levels and effectiveness.

3.     Reduction of Neuronal Excitability:

o    Besides its influence on GABAergic mechanisms, stiripentol is thought to modify the function of other receptors or ion channels on neurons, leading to decreased neuronal excitability.

4.     Antioxidant Properties:

o    Stiripentol also has antioxidant properties that may contribute to its neuroprotective effects.