Classifications of drugs for major neurological diseases

Question 1

Antiseizure medicatiosn/Antiepileptic drugs (AED’s)

Answer 1

Phenytoin (Dialantin) 
Valproic Acid (Depakote) 

Mechanism of action: inhibits entry of dosium into the neuron, decreases action potential and limits seizure activity

Uses: Grand Mal seizures, psychomotor, status elipticus, cardiac dysrhythmias, migraines, bipolar disorder

C/I: pregnancy

Side effects: nausea, constipation, headaches, nystagmus, suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Question 2

Anti-Parkinson’s meds

Answer 2

Levodopa

Mechanism of action: increases dopamine in the brain (usually combined with carbidopa)

side effects: dyskinesia (abnormal, impaired voluntary movement), nausea

Question 3

CNS stimulants: Amphetamines

Answer 3

mechanism of action: promotes release of norepinephrine and dopamine, inhibits reuptake in CNS and peripheral nerves- causing wakefulness, alertness

Use: ADHD, narcolepsy, obesity

side effects: physical dependence, insomnia, weight loss

Question 4

CNS stimulants: Attention deficit medications

Answer 4

Methylphenidate (ritalin, metadate, concerta)

M.O.A.: promotes the release of NE and dopamine and prevents reuptake

uses: ADHD, narcolepsy

Question 5

CNS stimulants: Methylxanthines

Answer 5

CAFFEINE

M.O.A.: enhancement of calcium permeability, blocks adenosine receptors

side effects: tremors, dysrhythmias, nervousness

Question 6

Alzheimers meds

Answer 6

NMDA receptor antagonist - Memantine (Namenda)

M.O.A: blocks glutamate receptors in the brain

For: Alzheimers, dementia

side effects: fatigue, pain, increased blood pressure, dizziness, headaches, constipation, vomiting confusion