Transcript Anticonvulsants - Delmar Cengage Learning

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