Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) Overview and Mechanisms

These flashcards cover vocabulary related to Antiepileptic Drugs, their mechanisms, and associated risks as discussed in the lecture.

Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Medications used to treat epileptic seizures.

Sodium Channel Blockers

AEDs that stabilize hyperexcited neurons by blocking sodium channels.

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

A commonly used AED that blocks sodium channels and requires monitoring for side effects.

Hyponatremia

A risk associated with sodium channel blockers like Carbamazepine and Oxcarbazepine.

GABA-Related AEDs

AEDs that enhance GABA activity or inhibit its breakdown.

Valproic Acid/Divalproex (Depakote)

A broad-spectrum AED that increases GABA levels and affects sodium and calcium channels.

Topiramate (Topamax)

An AED that enhances GABA and antagonizes glutamate, with risks including weight loss and kidney stones.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)

A rare but serious reaction associated with several AEDs, notably Lamotrigine.

Phenobarbital (Luminal)

A barbiturate that enhances GABA activity and poses risks of sedation and dependence.

Benzodiazepines

A class of AEDs used for status epilepticus that enhance GABA to inhibit neuron firing.