PNM- Ch4: Epileptic, Anti-epileptic Drugs

Question 1

💊 Lorazepam, Diazepam
(Benzodiazepines)

Answer 1

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Enhances GABA, reducing neuronal excitability

📌 Indications: Acute seizures, anxiety, muscle relaxation

⚠️ Side Effects: Drowsiness, respiratory depression, dependency

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor for sedation, avoid alcohol, risk of dependency

Question 2

💊 Midazolam
(Benzodiazepines)

Answer 2

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Short-acting, used for sedation and seizures

📌 Indications: Sedation for procedures, ICU use

⚠️ Side Effects: Amnesia, respiratory depression

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor respiratory rate, short-term use only

Question 3

💊 Dilantin
(Phenytoin)

Answer 3

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Blocks Na+ channels, stabilizes neurons

📌 Indications: Epilepsy, status epilepticus

⚠️ Side Effects: Gingival hyperplasia, ataxia, thrombophlebitis

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor drug levels, IV only in NS, slow infusion

Question 4

💊 Tegretol
(Carbamazepine)

Answer 4

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Blocks Na+ channels, enhances GABA

📌 Indications: Seizures, bipolar disorder

⚠️ Side Effects: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, hepatotoxicity

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor liver enzymes, watch for rash

Question 5

💊 Depakote
(Valproic Acid)

Answer 5

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Blocks Na+ channels, increases GABA

📌 Indications: Seizures, migraines, bipolar disorder

⚠️ Side Effects: Hepatotoxicity, teratogenic, pancreatitis

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Liver function tests, pregnancy risk, monitor for pancreatitis

Question 6

💊 Gabapentin
(Antiepileptic)

Answer 6

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Modulates GABA, used for partial seizures

📌 Indications: Partial seizures, neuropathic pain

⚠️ Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, weight gain

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor for sedation, avoid alcohol

Question 7

💊 Lamotrigine
(Antiepileptic)

Answer 7

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Blocks Na+ channels, stabilizes neurons

📌 Indications: Seizures, bipolar disorder

⚠️ Side Effects: Rash (SJS risk), dizziness

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor for rash (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)

Question 8

💊 Topiramate
(Antiepileptic)

Answer 8

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Blocks Na+ channels & enhances GABA

📌 Indications: Seizures, migraines

⚠️ Side Effects: Cognitive impairment, weight loss

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor for cognitive effects, weight changes

Question 9

💊 Phenobarbital
(Antiepileptic)

Answer 9

🔬 Mechanism of Action: Increases GABA activity, CNS depressant

📌 Indications: Seizures, anxiety, insomnia

⚠️ Side Effects: Sedation, respiratory depression

🩺 Nursing Considerations: Monitor respiratory status, risk of dependence

Question 10

What are benzodiazepines?

Answer 10

Benzodiazepines (Benzos) are a class of medications that slow down activity in your brain and nervous system.

They’re most often used for treating anxiety and related mental health conditions, as well as brain-related conditions like seizures.