Anticovulsants Mood Stabilizers - Bipolar Disorders

Question 1

Anticonvulsants - Mechanism of Action

Answer 1

Effects the chemistry of neurons via second messenger systems however action in tx of bipolar disorder is unclear

Question 2

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) - Uses

Answer 2

Epilepsy
Trigeminal neuralgia

Unlabeled:
Bipolar Disorder-Rapid cycle
Aggressive Disorders
Behavioral Disorders

For pt’s who don’t respond to Lithium

Question 3

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) - Contraindications

Answer 3

Hypersensitivity with MAOIs, lactation

Caution with elderly, liver/ renal/ cardiac disease, pregnancy

Question 4

Clonazepam (Klonopin) - Contraindications

Answer 4

Hypersensitivity with glaucoma, liver disease, lactation

Caution with elderly, liver/ renal/ cardiac disease, pregnancy

Question 5

Valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote) - Contraindications

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity with liver disease

Caution with elderly, liver/ renal/ cardiac disease, pregnancy and lactation

Question 6

Lamotrigine (Lamictal) - Contraindications

Answer 6

Hypersensitivity

Caution renal and hepatic insufficiency, pregnancy, lactation and children < 16 years old

Question 7

Topiramate (Topamax) - Contraindications

Answer 7

Hypersensitivity

Caution renal and hepatic impairment, pregnancy, lactation, children, and the elderly

Question 8

Oxcarbemazepine (Trileptal) - Contraindications

Answer 8

Hypersensitivity

Caution renal and hepatic impairment, pregnancy, lactation, children, and the elderly

Question 9

Anticonvulsants - SE

Answer 9

N&V
Drowsiness/ dizziness
Blood dyscrasias
Prolonged bleeding time (with valproic acid)
Risk of severe rash (with lamotrigine)
Decreased efficacy with oral contraceptives (with topiramate)
Risk of suicide with all antiepileptic drugs