Epilepsy

Question 1

What’s the first-line drug for generalized-tonic clonic seizures?

Answer 1

Phenobarbital

Question 2

What’s the first-line drug for generalized seizures that are associated with partial seizures (i.e. partial seizures that progress to generalized)

Answer 2

Carbamazepine

Question 3

What’s the first line drug for absence seizures?

Answer 3

Sodium valproate

Question 4

What’s the first-line drug for partial seizures?

Answer 4

Phenobarbitol

Question 5

What’s the first-line drug for myoclonic and akinetic seizures?

Answer 5

Sodium valproate

Question 6

What is involved in the general management of status epilepticus?

Answer 6

• Secure airway

Treat reversible causes and aim to stop convulsions
* IV thiamine
* IV glucose
* IV diazepam

If convulsions continue
* IV phenytoin OR IV phenobarbitol (preferred if related to poisoning) infusion