Anti-seizure Drugs Flashcards

1
Q

What is the go-to drug in status epilepticus ?

A

Diazepam
(Benzodiazepine)

Given directly by intravenous push to a maximum total dose of 20-30 mg in adults

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2
Q

What is the drug used in absence seizures? And what is it’s mechanism?

A

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.

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3
Q

What the most common dose-related side effects of ethosuximide?

A
  1. GI distress (pain, nausea, vomiting)

2. Lethargy or fatigue

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4
Q

What drug would you give a patient who suffers from absence seizures and occasional tonic -clonic seizures?

A

Valproate!! (Broad spectrum anti-epileptic)

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5
Q

What are absence seizures?

A

= 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 !

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6
Q

What is a rare but lethal side effect of valproic acid?

A

Steve Johnson syndrome

also called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

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