Updated recommendations for the design of therapeutic trials for neonatal seizures

The International Neonatal Consortium Seizure Working Group of the Critical Path Institute provides an update to the original recommendations for design of clinical trials to treat neonatal seizures based on recent experiences from several trials and developments in the field. Although there aren't sufficient new data to inform definitions of optimal efficacy endpoints, the Working Group recommended inclusion of alternate measures of seizure burden reduction as secondary or exploratory endpoints, to elucidate clinically meaningful efficacy endpoints for future trials. It was recommended to include additional key covariates, such as timing of seizure onset/cessation, randomization, and ASM administration. There are new recommendations regarding potential for unmasked or single-masked trials, and reporting of concomitant medications and adverse events, and genetic testing. Importantly, specific recommendations were added regarding improved strategies for recruitment and consent, including the use of novel technologies and the involvement of patient advocacy groups. Recommendations regarding trial infrastructure and operational feasibility were included to facilitate trial initiation and conduct, given the many logistical challenges of conducting neonatal seizure treatment trials. Finally, the recommendations consider accommodations for local or national regulations and resources, to ensure that trials are conducted as appropriate to the setting in which the patients are treated. IMPACT: This review provides an update to the initial recommendations for neonatal seizure treatment trial design, with recommendations regarding: (1) exploratory endpoints to inform future trials, (2) additional key covariates to include, (3) considerations regarding masking of investigators, (3) inclusion of concomitant medications and adverse events, (4) genetic testing, (5) strategies for recruitment and consent, and (6) infrastructure and operational feasibility.