Anticonvulsants Flashcards
1
Q
What are the two main anticonvulsants?
A
Carbamazepine (Tegretol) and Valproic Acid (Depakote and Depakene)
2
Q
What are two pain uses for Carbamazepine (Tegretol)?
A
- Esp. useful in treating mixed episodes and rapid-cycling bipolar disorder, and less effective of the depressed phase.
- Also used for management of trigeminal neuralgia
3
Q
What is the mechanism of Carbamazepine (Tegretol)?
A
Acts by blocking sodium channels and inhibiting action potentials.
4
Q
What is the onset of action for Carbamazepine (Tegretol)?
A
5-7 days
5
Q
What tests must be obtained before initiating treatment and must be monitored regularly?
A
Complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests (LFTs).
