Anti-convulsant - Lamotrigine

Question 1

What is Lamotrigine used for?

Answer 1

• epilepsy (focal and generalised seizures)

- bipolar

Question 2

How does lamotrigine work?

Answer 2

• enhances GABA, (an inhibitory neurotransmitter) this stops the spread of neuronal activity in a siezure.
• blocks sodium channel –> less action potentials

Question 3

What are the side effects of Lamotrigine

Answer 3

Neuro : dizziness, headache, loss of co-ordination, blurred vission, confusion

GI : nausea/vomiting

Antiepileptic hypersensitivity syndrome

excacerbation of parkinson’s disease

bLood disorders : anaemia

Question 4

What are the drug interactions of lamotrigine

Answer 4

Drugs metabolised by P450 enzymes e.g. warfarin, oestrogen, progestogen

• rifampicin
• sodium valproate
• SSRIs
• tricyclic antidepressants
• Antipsychotics

Question 5

What is Levitaracetam used for?

Answer 5

-focal onset epilepsy

-

Question 6

What are the side effects of Levitaracetam?

Answer 6

GI: loss of appetite
vomiting
diarrhea
constipation

Neuro:
weakness
unsteady walking
loss of balance or coordination
confusion
headache
excessive sleepiness
double vision

MSK:
joint pain
neck pain

-antiepileptic hypersensitivity syndrome (fever, skin change, organ involvement)

Question 7

What are the drug interactions of levitaracetam?

Answer 7

• methotrexate (increases conc of methotrexate)
• Drugs metabolised by P450 enzymes
• SSRIs
• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Antiphyschotics