Antiseizure medications

Definition

Antiseizure medications, also known as anticonvulsants, are drugs used to manage and treat epileptic seizures. They help stabilize electrical activity in the brain to prevent abnormal bursts of neuronal firing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antiseizure medications can affect nutrient absorption and metabolism, making balanced nutrition essential for patients.
2. Common antiseizure medications include phenytoin, valproate, and carbamazepine.
3. Long-term use of some antiseizure medications can lead to deficiencies in vitamins D, K, and folic acid.
4. Patients on antiseizure medications may require regular blood tests to monitor drug levels and nutritional status.
5. Dietary adjustments or supplements might be necessary for patients experiencing side effects like weight gain or loss.

Review Questions

• How do antiseizure medications impact the absorption and metabolism of nutrients?
• Name three common antiseizure medications.
• What nutritional deficiencies might arise from long-term use of antiseizure medications?

Related terms

Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

Nutrient Absorption: The process by which nutrients from food are taken up into the bloodstream from the digestive tract.

Folic Acid: A B-vitamin important for cell division and growth, often affected by long-term use of certain medications including anticonvulsants.