Anticonvulsant drugs

Definition

Anticonvulsant drugs are medications used to prevent and control seizures. They work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common anticonvulsants include phenytoin, valproate, and carbamazepine.
2. These drugs can also be used for conditions like bipolar disorder and neuropathic pain.
3. Most anticonvulsants have a narrow therapeutic index, requiring careful monitoring of blood levels.
4. Side effects can range from dizziness and drowsiness to more severe reactions like liver toxicity or Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
5. Therapeutic efficacy can vary between patients, necessitating individualized treatment plans.

Review Questions

• What is the primary mechanism of action for most anticonvulsant drugs?
• Name three common anticonvulsant medications and one other condition they may treat besides epilepsy.
• Why is it important to monitor blood levels in patients taking anticonvulsant drugs?

Related terms

Seizure: An uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, or consciousness.

Epilepsy: A neurological disorder marked by recurring seizures.

Therapeutic Index: The ratio between the toxic dose and the therapeutic dose of a drug, indicating its safety margin.