Session 11

Question 1

Give the broad actions of anti epileptic drugs (AEDs) and give examples

Answer 1

Enhancement of GABA Action (benzodiazepines)

Inhibition of sodium channel function (phenytoin, valproate, carbamezepine, Lamotrigine)

Question 2

Give a broad overview of the first line therapies in epilepsy

Answer 2

Valproate - primary generalized seizures
Carbamezepine - partial seizures (or generalized seizures).
Lamotrigine - either, but is the drug of choice for women of childbearing age.
Benzodiazepines and phenytoin - status epilepticus

Question 3

List some generic prescribing rules for anti epileptic drugs

Answer 3

Monotherapy is the optimum aim
ITU sedation is a treatment
Patients must remain under review
Significant variation in drug plasma levels - monitor and titrate