Seizure Medications

Question 1

What are side effects of Phenytoin?

Answer 1

Gingival hyperplasia, hirsutism, morbilliform (measle-like) rash, rickets, osteomalacia

Question 2

Is phenytoin safe in pregnancy?

Answer 2

No, category D pregnancy risk.

Question 3

What is the black box warning for valproic acid?

Answer 3

Fatal hepatic failure and pancreatitis. Common symptoms are n/v, anorexia, and abdominal pain. Neonates may have congenital malformations and decreased mental capacity.

Question 4

What are side effects with valproic acid?

Answer 4

Hyperammonemia, rash, weight gain, hair loss, tremor, and blood dycrasias.

Question 5

Does valproic acid have a pregnancy risk?

Answer 5

Category D pregnancy risk

Question 6

What drug can cause hyperammonemia when combined with valproic acid?

Answer 6

Topamax

Question 7

Which antiseizure medications cause hyponatremia?

Answer 7

Carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, eslicarbazepine

Question 8

What are adverse effects of topamax?

Answer 8

Metabolic acidosis, hyperthermia, rare cases of angle-closure glaucoma