A study of the product of demethylation of trimethadione in the control of petit mal epilepsy

Abstract

5,5-Dimethyl-2,4-oxazolidinedione [dimethadione] (DMO), the product of demethylation of trimethadione, was tested for activity in controlling petit mal epilepsy. In 5 patients there was complete disappearance of seizures after a period of DMO administration. After withdrawal of the drug, the seizures recurred. Trimethadione was then administered. In no case was the therapeutic result with trimethadione superior to that which had been achieved with equivalent dosage of DMO. It is concluded that the therapeutic effect of trimethadione can be accounted for as the action of the DMO produced from it and that there is no advantage in the use of trimethadione rather than DMO in the treatment of petit mal epilepsy.