chapter 32 anticonvulsants. copyright 2007 thomson delmar learning, a division of thomson learning...
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Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved Symptoms of Epilepsy Abnormal motor function Loss of consciousness Altered sensory awareness Psychic changesTRANSCRIPT
Chapter 32Anticonvulsants
Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.
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Epilepsy An electrical disorder of the brain that
sometimes leads to seizures Definitions
Seizure: a brief episode of abnormal electrical activity in the nerve cells
Convulsion: spasmodic contractions of involuntary muscles
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Symptoms of Epilepsy Abnormal motor function Loss of consciousness Altered sensory awareness Psychic changes
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Drug Agents Used to Prevent Seizures
Barbiturates Hydantoins Succinimides Benzodiazepines Other agents
Valproic acid Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Clients often on these medications for life
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Anticonvulsants
Treatment Start with one drug and add others as
needed Check serum drug concentrations as
required
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Goal of Anticonvulsants
Prevent the generation and spread of excessive discharges in the brain
Protect the normal cells
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Anticonvulsants: Therapeutic Effects
Stabilize nerve cells and prevent hyperexcitability
Prevent the generation of hyperactive neurons
Prevent abnormal impulses from spreading
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Anticonvulsants: Side Effects
Carbamazepine (Tegretol) Blood dyscrasias
Phenytoin (Dilantin) Gum hyperplasia
Diazepam (Valium) Respiratory depression and drowsiness
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Pediatric Considerations
Barbiturates require lower dosages Excessive sedation, confusion, lethargy,
or decreased movement Paradoxical reactions Valproic acid: do not give with milk Wear a MedicAlert® bracelet