EEG and anticonvulsant effects of dipropylacetic acid and dipropylacetamide in the baboon Papio papio.

The ability of dipropylacetic acid (DPA) and dipropylacetamide (DPM) to modify EEG and seizure activity was assessed in 4 female and 3 male Papio papio. Doses of 30-60 mg/kg of DPA given at intervals over an 8 h period produced blood levels of 19-44 micrograms/ml which were not protective against intermittent light stimulation (ILS). Administration of 150-200 mg/kg doses at intervals over a 36 h period produced blood levels greater than 150 micrograms/ml and were highly protective against ILS. Similar results were obtained following adminstration of DPM; however, DPM appeared to offer greater protection against ILS. A moderate amount of seizure control was obtained at blood levels of 60-91 micrograms/ml (DPA) and complete blockade occurred at levels greater than 100 micrograms/ml DPA. Background EEG changes were similar following either DPA or DPM and consisted of a striking increase in total spectral power with relative power changes in 10-20 c/sec range, the magnitude of which was related to blood levels of DPA. Both agents produced a quieting effect on behavior without severe depression.