Anticonvulsants

Question 1

Phenytoin

Answer 1

Therapeutic class: Anticonvulsant

Indication: Seizures (long-term)

Action: blocks sustained high freq.repetitive firing of action potentials

Nursing Considerations:
● Therapeutic level: 10-20 mcg/mL**
● Side effect: gingival hyperplasia
○ Regular dental check-ups
○ Use soft bristle toothbrush
● Antacids can reduce the effect of phenytoin and should be avoided (ex: calcium carbonate)

Question 2

Gabapentin

Question 3

Levetiracetam