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seizures
pharm122
Question | Answer |
---|---|
anticonvulsant | is a drug that terminates convulsive seizures |
antiepileptic | used prophylactically to reduce or prevent epileptic seizures |
What are some considerations regarding anti-seizure drug therapy? | CNS depression can lead to respiratory depression, most have a low therapeutic index (check serum levels), lots of drug interactions, class D pregnancy class, decrease oral contraceptives, folic acid deficiency |
What are the overall goals for anti-seizure therapy? | suppress neuronal firing enough to prevent repetitive or abnormal firing AND/OR increase the electrical threshold for firing to prevent epileptics from crossing the threshold as often (succanimides). |
What is GABA? | GABA is a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that works in the brain |
What do some anti-seizure meds do to GABA? | Anti-seizure meds will enhance GABA actions. |
What is the drug category of choice for status epilepticus? | Benzodiazapines (lorazepam Ativan) |
What are some adverse effects for Phenytoin (Dilantin)? | Adverse side effects for hydantoins include dizziness, ataxia, visual disturbances, dysrhythmias, peripheral neuropathy, agranulocytosis, and aplastic anemia, gingival hyperplasia |
What are some nursing considerations for Phenytoin (Dilantin)? | Nursing considerations include CBCs, monitor serum levels, interact with many drugs, good oral hygiene and frequent trips to dentist. |