Antiepileptic Drugs (Calcium Channel Blockers)

Question 1

What is Ethosuximide (Zarontin) used for?

Answer 1

Absence seizures

Ethosuximide primarily treats absence seizures by inhibiting low threshold T-type calcium channels.

Question 2

What mechanism does Ethosuximide (Zarontin) utilize?

Answer 2

Inhibits low threshold T-type calcium channels

This inhibition is crucial for controlling absence seizures.

Question 3

What types of seizures does Valproic acid (Depakote) treat?

Answer 3

Partial, tonic-clonic, atypical absence seizures

Valproic acid is effective for multiple seizure types.

Question 4

What is one of the mechanisms of Valproic acid (Depakote)?

Answer 4

Inhibits T-type calcium channels

This mechanism contributes to its effectiveness in seizure control.

Question 5

What effect does Valproic acid (Depakote) have on GABA transaminase activity?

Answer 5

Decreases GABA transaminase activity

This leads to increased GABA levels, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission.