Felbamate (Felbatol) Seizure Medication

Question 1

Classification:

Answer 1

• Anticonvulsant

Question 2

Action:

Answer 2

• Mechanism is unknown, it increases seizure threshold in absence seizures, and prevents the spread of generalized tonic-clonic and partial seizures
• Appears to affect both N-methyl-D-asparate and GABA function

Question 3

Indications:

Answer 3

• Partial seizures w/ and w/out generalization in epileptic adults
• Partial and generalized seizures associated w/ Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in children

Question 4

Adverse Effects:

Answer 4

• Nausea/vomiting
• Suicidal ideation and behavior
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Dyspepsia
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Rhinitis
• Anxiety
• Aplastic anemia (Occasionally fatal)
• Photosensitivity

Question 5

Contraindications:

Answer 5

• Blood dyscrasias
• Hepatic disease
• Known sensitivity to carbamates

Question 6

Dosage:

Answer 6

• Should be individualized based on condition

Question 7

Special Considerations:

Answer 7

• Use should be limited to very particular situations
• Manufacturer recommends written informed consent prior to initiating therapy