Inhibition of electrically induced seizures by a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker.

Nimodipine, a calcium channel blocker with high affinity for central dihydropyridine Ca2+ channels, produced a dose-dependent suppression of electrically induced seizures in the rabbit. Verapamil, a diphenylalkylamine which acts at peripheral Ca2+ channels, was ineffective. Phenytoin was less effective than nimodipine. These results suggest that calcium flux into neurons may be a biochemical precipitant for seizure genesis. Centrally acting calcium channel blockers may prove to be a new class of anticonvulsants.