Anti-seizure Drugs Flashcards
What is the go-to drug in status epilepticus ?
Diazepam
(Benzodiazepine)
Given directly by intravenous push to a maximum total dose of 20-30 mg in adults
What is the drug used in absence seizures? And what is it’s mechanism?
Ethosuximide
works by blocking T-type calcium channels in thalamic neurons
This action halts the sustained rhythmical burst discharges occurring in that region and prevents the occurrence of absence attacks.
What the most common dose-related side effects of ethosuximide?
- GI distress (pain, nausea, vomiting)
2. Lethargy or fatigue
What drug would you give a patient who suffers from absence seizures and occasional tonic -clonic seizures?
Valproate!! (Broad spectrum anti-epileptic)
What are absence seizures?
= type of generalized seizure that is characterized by sudden momentary lapses in awareness accompanied by staring, rhythmic blinking or clinic jerks
Mostly seen in children !
Following the attack the behavior and awareness return to normal but the patients usually has no recollection that the seizure occurred
-most last about 10 sec and that occur up to 100 times a day !
What is a rare but lethal side effect of valproic acid?
Steve Johnson syndrome
also called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis