Anti-convulsants Flashcards
List the three main types of anti-convulsants
Sodium valproate, lamotrigine and carbamazepine
How does sodium valproate work
Blocks voltage sensitive sodium channels and increases levels of GABA
When is sodium valproate used
Effective in bipolar mania/hypomania
What are the side effects of sodium valproate
Sedation, tremor, dizziness, GI upset, tiredness, teratogenic and weight gain
Investigations needed during sodium valproate
Platelet counts and LFTs prior to initiation
How does lamotrigine work
Blocks voltage sensetive sodium channels
When is lamotrigine used
Treatment and prophylaxis or bipolar depression. Also some evidence base as an anti-manic
What side effects does lamotrigine have
Rash, GI upset, insomnia and SJS and blood dyscrasias
How do you reduce the risk of SJS while using lamotrigine
Titrate slowly over 6 weeks
How does carbamazepine work
It is a sodium channel blocker
How is carbamazepine used
Long term treatment of bipolar/hypomania
Side effects of carbamazepine
Drowsiness, ataxia, cardio effects and induces liver enzymes
