Anti-epileptics Flashcards
What are examples of VGSC blockers?
Carbamazepine
Phenytoin
Lamotrigine
What are the ADRs of Carbamezepine?
CNS: dizziness, drowsiness, ataxia etc.
GI
Changes in BP
Severe bone marrow depletion
What are the DDIs of Carbamezepine?
Phenytoin Warfarin Systemic corticosteroids Oral contraceptives All decrease activity
What are ADRs of phenytoin?
Dizziness, ataxia, headache nystagmus
Gingival hyperplasia
Rashes
What types of epilepsy do Carbamezepine and phenytoin treat?
Generalised tonic-clonic
Partial
NOT absence seizures
What do women of child-bearing age need to be aware of when being prescribed with Carbamezepine and phenytoin?
Failure rate of contraception increases with them
Teratogenicity
What are the dangers to the foetus during pregnancy and taking anti-epileptics?
Congenital malformation
Valproate causes neural tube defects
Facial and digit hypoplasia
Learning difficulties
What can decrease the risk of neural tube defects in epileptic pregnant women?
Folate supplements
If it cannot be avoided, what anti-epileptic can be used in pregnancy?
Lamotrigine
What can be used to treat absence seizures?
Lamotrigine
How does enhanced GABA mediated inhibition work?
Enhances GABA production
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter
Decreases likelihood of epileptic neuronal hyperactivity
What are examples of GABA enhancers?
Valproate
Benzodiazepines
How does Valproate work?
Inhibits GABA inactivation enzymes
Stimulates GABA synthesising enzymes
What are ADRs of Valproate?
CNS: sedation, ataxia, tremor, weight gain
Increased transaminases
Rarely, hepatic failure
What are DDIs of Valproate?
Antidepressants, antipsychotics and aspirin decrease activity