Anticonvulsants Flashcards
What is the mechanism of action of lamotrigine?
blocks voltage gated sodium channels, to prevent sodium influx. it prevents the depolarisation of glutamatergic neurones and reduces glutamate excitotoxicity
What is the drug target of lamotrigine?
voltage gated sodium channels
What are the main side effects of lamotrigine?
rash, drowsiness, steven johnsons syndrome, suicidal thoughts
What is lamotrigine used to treat?
epilepsy and can also prevent low mood in bipolar
What is the mechanism of action of sodium valproate?
inhibits GABA transaminase and prevents the breakdown of GABA. this increases GABA concentrations by slowing down metabolism of GABA
What is the drug target of sodium valproate?
GABA transaminase
What are the side effects of sodium valproate?
stomach pain, diarrhoea, drowsiness, weight gain, hair loss, teratogenicity, pancreatitis, hepatotoxicity
What is the primary mechanism of action of diazepam?
increase chloride ion influx in response GABA binding the GABA A receptor - this leads to hyperpolarisation of excitatory neurones
What is the drug target of diazepam?
benzodiazepine site on the GABA A receptor
What are the side effects of diazepam?
drowsiness, respiratory depression (iv or high dose)
can also lead to haemolytic anaemia and jaundice
What is the primary mechanism of action of levetiracetam?
inhibition of the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A. it inhibits this protein and prevents vesicle exocytosis, reducing glutamate secretion and reducing neurotoxicity
What is the drug target of levetiracetam?
synaptic vesicle protein SV2A
What are the side effects of levetiracetam?
dizziness, somnolence, fatigue, headache
Why should lamotrigine be reduced gradually?
to reduce the frequency and severity of allergic skin reactions
Why is diazepam not used for long term convulsion suppression?
development of tolerance and individuals can become dependent on diazepam
