Ch 14 - Antiepileptic Drugs Flashcards
1
Q
What is a seizure?
A
Abnormal electric activity in the brain
2
Q
What is a convulsion?
A
Severe seizure, involuntary spasmodic muscle contractions
3
Q
What is epilepsy?
A
A chronic recurrent seizure due to excessive neuronal discharge
4
Q
What action do antileptic drugs have on the body?
A
Increase neurotransmitter GABA in the brain regulating electrolytes across the membrane
GABA decreases the excitability of cells decreasing activity
5
Q
What should you tell the patient before giving them and antiepileptic drug?
A
Never stop the medication abruptly
6
Q
What causes a seizure?
A
Low levels of GABA in the brain
