CARBAMAZEPINE IN THE DYSCONTROL SYNDROME ASSOCIATED WITH LIMBIC SYSTEM DYSFUNCTION

The literature has long demonstrated an association between certain behavioral problems and EEG abnormalities, particularly the association of aggressive and sometimes violent behavior with foci in the temporal lobes. The concept of "dyscontrol syndromes" has also been established and it is possible that some instances of the dyscontrol syndrome arise from an abnormal sensitization of the limbic system, due to disturbance in or near the temporal lobes. Carbamazepine is an interesting new drug, with both anticonvulsant and psychotropic properties, for which both the behavioral effects and pharmacological actions have been defined. The properties of carbamazepine for blocking polysynaptic reflexes and suppressing post-tetanic potentiation are discussed with respect to this limbic system dysfunction in the dyscontrol syndrome. It is also proposed that this drug might be considered for its psychotropic effect in certain instances of dyscontrol, with or without clinical diagnosis of epilepsy. An illustrative case is cited.