Archive for the ‘Epilepsy’ Category
Sodium valproate used in the treatment of all forms of epilepsy: it is a drug of choice in major, absence, and partial
seizures. It is suitable for long-term use, does not cause sedation, and can be taken with oral contraceptives. Sodium valproate is available, on prescription only, as tablets, crushable tablets, a syrup, or a liquid for oral use and as an intravenous injection.
Side effects: include gastric irritation, nausea, unsteadiness, and weight gain. Transient hair loss, oedema, and blood disorders may occur; rare side effects are liver failure and bleeding disorders.
Precautions: patients who are planning on becoming pregnant, or who are already pregnant, should seek specialist advice.
Interactions with other drugs:
Anticonvulsants: taking two or more anticonvulsants together may increase their adverse effects. Valproate often raises (but may lower) the plasma concentration of phenytoin; phenytoin often lowers the plasma concentration of valproate.
Antidepressants: reduce the anticonvulsant effect of sodium valproate.
Antimalarials: antagonize the anticonvulsant effect of sodium valproate.
Antipsycnotics: reduce the anticonvulsant effect of sodium valproate.
Aspirin: enhances the effect of sodium valproate.
Cimetidine: increases plasma concentrations of sodium valproate.
Proprietary preparations: Epilim; Orlept; Sondate 200 EC; EPILIM CHRONO (combined with valproic acid).
An anticonvulsant drug used as an adjunct in the treatment of partial epilepsy. It is available as tablets on prescription only.
Side effects: include somnolence, dizziness, shaky movements, fatigue, headache, nausea and vomiting, rhinitis, weight gain, and nervousness.
Precautions: dosages should be reduced gradually when stopping medication. The dosage may need to be reduced in the elderly.
Women who are planning to become pregnant, or who are already pregnant, should seek specialist advice. Gabapentin is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding.
Interactions with other drugs:
Anatacids: reduce the absorption of gabapentm.
Proprietary preparation: Neurontin.
