27. Chap 19.1 Anti-seizure drugs

What causes seizures in the brain?

Recurrent, uncontrolled cerebral excitation

What are the causes of seizures in younger people? Adults?

Younger people: Often unknown

Adults: Often secondary to specific event, ex. CVA, tumor, trauma, etc

What are the factors that help determine what type of seizure occurred? (3)

Extent of cerebral involvement

EEG activity

Symptoms

What are the types of seizures? (2 main types, each with 2 subtypes)

Focal (partial) seizures: Simple or complex

Generalized: Absence (petit mal) or tonic-clonic (grand mal)

What is the difference between neuron activity in a focal vs generalized seizure?

Focal seizures stay in one part of the brain, while generalized spread in brain

What is the goal of antiseizure medications?

To exert a selective effect on hyperexcitable neurons

What are some of the benefits of "second generation" seizure meds? (3)

Milder side effects

More predictable profile

Used to treat neuropathic pain (Gabapentin)

What are the main ways that antiseizure medications work? (4 ways)

Decrease Na+ entry into cells

Decrease Ca+ entry into thalamic cells

Increase GABA inhibition

Decrease release or effects of excitatory amino acids

What are some minor side effects of antiseizure meds? (5)

Sedation

Headache

Dizziness

Incoordination

GI problems

What are some major side effects of antiseizure meds? (3)

Liver toxicity

Blood dyscrasias

Increased risk of birth defects