Misc Leftover Info

Question 1

Common goal for anti-seizure meds

Answer 1

Suppress excitability of neurons that are causing seizures

Question 2

Many anti-seizure drugs are sedating, especially these

Answer 2

First generation

Question 3

Most anti-seizure drugs have these sedating side effects

Answer 3

• sleepiness
• fatigue
• lethargy

Question 4

Which drug is often used to stop severe, uncontrolled seizures

Answer 4

Nembutal

when other drugs are ineffective

Question 5

Which anti-seizure meds are also used to treat bipolar disorder?

Answer 5

Valproates

Question 6

Why are second gen drugs generally more favorable?

Answer 6

Better

• absorption
• distribution
• metabolism

Question 7

Anti-seizure meds: therapy scheduling

Answer 7

Should be about an hour after a dose

Question 8

Pregnancy precautions for anti-seizure meds

Answer 8

Risks of congenital malformations increased

Question 9

Withdrawal from anti-seizure meds: seizure free afterwards

Answer 9

60-70% can be free of seizures after meds withdrawn

Question 10

Criteria for withdrawing from seizure meds

Answer 10

• free of seizures for at least 2 years on meds
• good control of seizures within first year after seizures start
• normal neuro exam prior to withdrawal
• initial onset of seizures during childhood

Question 11

How should a pt be taken off seizure meds?

Answer 11

Tapered off over 3-6 months

Question 12

Special concerns for rehab pts who have seizures

Answer 12

• maintaining drug dosage within therapeutic window

- understand that seizures can be triggered by environmental factors

Question 13

Why do you get a drug hangover the next day?

Answer 13

Drugs are lipid soluble and stay in the system for longer

Question 14

Barbiturates are mostly used in _______ situations

Answer 14

Controlled