Aphasia is a socially isolating and extremely debilitating disorder of spoken and/or written language and is usually a result of stroke, particularly involving the left hemisphere. It may affect comprehension or production of words. Losing the ability to successfully communicate with others is frustrating and often complicates the ability to effectively deliver other rehabilitative treatments.

Aphasic symptoms can vary widely across different individuals. While some may recover much of their language abilities, others may not show significant improvement. Unfortunately, six months to one year post-stroke, there are few treatment options available.

Much of the current treatment for aphasia is focused on speech therapy; however, there have been increasingly significant therapeutic and research developments that may help improve aphasic communication. For example, aphasiacs may opt to utilize language training computer software not available to earlier generations. Nonetheless, finding successful therapies for aphasia continues to challenge patients, caregivers, and specialists at all levels.

In an attempt to expand treatments options, we, in conjunction with UCB Pharma, are currently conducting research on medication therapies. Specifically, we are investigating the potential effectiveness of Levetiracetam (Keppra) on the recovery of speech and language abilities in individuals with post-stroke aphasia. Keppra is FDA approved for the treatment of epilepsy but more importantly, is pharmacologically related to a similar drug, not available in the US, which has been reported to improve symptoms associated with post-stroke aphasia

It is our hope that this research may contribute to the availability of long-term treatment options so that patients may have a better chance of recovering social and vocational functioning.