Evidence supporting the use of: Bromide
For the health condition: Epilepsy

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bromide compounds, such as potassium bromide, have a long history of use in the treatment of epilepsy, dating back to the mid-19th century. In 1857, Sir Charles Locock first reported the anticonvulsant properties of potassium bromide, making it one of the earliest effective treatments for epilepsy. The use of bromides became widespread in the late 1800s and early 1900s due to their ability to reduce seizure frequency, particularly in generalized tonic-clonic seizures. The mechanism is believed to involve the substitution of bromide ions for chloride ions in neurons, leading to decreased neuronal excitability and, thus, anticonvulsant effects. However, bromides fell out of favor as newer antiepileptic drugs were developed, offering greater efficacy and a better safety profile. Chronic use of bromides can lead to significant side effects, known as bromism, which include neurological and psychiatric symptoms such as confusion, irritability, hallucinations, and skin eruptions. Today, bromide is rarely used in human medicine for epilepsy treatment, except in certain cases where newer medications are not available or are ineffective. It is, however, still used in veterinary medicine, especially for dogs with epilepsy. In summary, while there is historical and some scientific evidence for the efficacy of bromide in treating epilepsy, its use is largely of historical interest, and it has been supplanted by safer and more effective medications.

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Other health conditions supported by Bromide

Epilepsy

Products containing Bromide

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