Ethosuximide

Definition

Ethosuximide is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used to treat absence seizures. It works by reducing the activity of certain neurons in the brain that contribute to seizure activity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethosuximide is especially effective for treating absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures.
2. The medication works by inhibiting T-type calcium channels in thalamic neurons.
3. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, fatigue, and dizziness.
4. Nutrition can impact the absorption and efficacy of ethosuximide; high-fat meals may delay its absorption.
5. Monitoring blood levels of ethosuximide is important to ensure therapeutic ranges are maintained and to avoid toxicity.

Review Questions

• What type of seizures is ethosuximide primarily used to treat?
• How does ethosuximide work at a neuronal level?
• Why might nutritional considerations be important when administering ethosuximide?

Related terms

Absence Seizures: A type of seizure involving brief, sudden lapses in attention.

T-type Calcium Channels: Channels in neurons that play a crucial role in generating rhythmic electrical activity.

Anticonvulsant: A class of drugs used to prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic seizures or other convulsions.