Chapter 14: Antiepileptic Drugs (seizure) Flashcards
Goal of antiepileptic drugs
Control or prevent seizures by decreasing speed of impulses
Categories of antiepileptic drugs
Barbiturates
Hydantoins
Valproic acids
Black box warning for antiepileptic drugs
Suicidal thoughts and behavior
Adverse effects of Phenytoin (Dilantin)
May cause gum problems (gingival hyperplasia).
Teachings of oral drugs
Take same time each day
Take with meals to reduce GI upset
Do not crush
What is seizure
Brief episode of abnormal electrical brain activity
What is convulsion
Uncontrolled spasms and contractions of muscles
What is Epilepsy
Chronic seizures
Status Epilepticus
Medical emergency. Multiple seizures with no recovery between them.
Results in hypotension, hypoxia, brain damage and death.
Action of Antiepileptic Drugs
Reduce nerve stimulation
Suppress transmission of impulses
Decrease speeed of nerve impulses
Indications of Antiepileptic Drugs
Prevention of control of seizure.
Long term maintenance.
Acute treatment of convulsions & status epilepticus.
Common Antiepileptic Drugs
Gabapentin
Levetiracetam
Lamotrigine
Valproic acid
Phenytoin
