Anticonvulsant action in the photosensitive baboon, Papio papio, of a novel beta-carboline derivative, ZK 91296.

The anticonvulsant action of ethyl-5-benzyloxy-4-methoxymethyl-beta-carboline-3-carboxylate (ZK 91296) has been studied in Senegalese baboons, Papio papio, with photosensitive epilepsy. Myoclonic and paroxysmal electroencephalographic responses to stroboscopic stimulation are diminished or abolished for 2-4 h after ZK 91296, 0.25-4 mg/kg, i.v. Radioreceptor assay of plasma ZK 91296 indicates rapid clearance (t 1/2 alpha, 5-20 min and beta, 60-90 min). In this model of generalised epilepsy ZK 91296 is similar to diazepam in potency but has a longer duration of action.