Anti-seizure Drugs

Question 1

What is the go-to drug in status epilepticus ?

Answer 1

Diazepam
(Benzodiazepine)

Given directly by intravenous push to a maximum total dose of 20-30 mg in adults

Question 2

What is the drug used in absence seizures? And what is it’s mechanism?

Answer 2

Ethosuximide

works by blocking T-type calcium channels in thalamic neurons
This action halts the sustained rhythmical burst discharges occurring in that region and prevents the occurrence of absence attacks.

Question 3

What the most common dose-related side effects of ethosuximide?

Answer 3

1. GI distress (pain, nausea, vomiting)

2. Lethargy or fatigue

Question 4

What drug would you give a patient who suffers from absence seizures and occasional tonic -clonic seizures?

Answer 4

Valproate!! (Broad spectrum anti-epileptic)

Question 5

What are absence seizures?

Answer 5

= type of generalized seizure that is characterized by sudden momentary lapses in awareness accompanied by staring, rhythmic blinking or clinic jerks

Mostly seen in children !

Following the attack the behavior and awareness return to normal but the patients usually has no recollection that the seizure occurred

-most last about 10 sec and that occur up to 100 times a day !

Question 6

What is a rare but lethal side effect of valproic acid?

Answer 6

Steve Johnson syndrome

also called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis