Epilepsy drugs such as Carbatrol and Gabitril are commonly prescribed to treat partial as well as generalized seizures.
In simple terms, seizures are defined as temporary involuntary contraction of muscles (convulsions), which can occur in any part of the body. In some cases, uncontrollable shaking (convulsions) is accompanied by loss of sensation or consciousness. This involuntary movement of muscles, generally last for a short while (few seconds).
Types of Seizures
Seizures are a result of temporary brain dysfunction in which there is an abnormal generation of electrical signals that control muscle movement.
In partial seizures, these electrical disturbances remain confined to a specific part of the brain. It is typically marked by brief periods of involuntary shaking and as such the person does not lose his consciousness.
In case of generalized seizures, the abnormal activity of electrical impulses is spread throughout the brain. As a result, the whole body shakes uncontrollably and is followed by loss of consciousness.
Drugs for Partial Seizures
Medications that may be prescribed to treat this form of seizures that are less severe are given below:
- Lyrica (Pregabalin)
- Trileptal (Oxcarbazepine)
- Zonegran (Zonisamide)
- Keppra (Levetiracetam)
Drugs for Generalized Seizures
Medications that may be administered intravenously to treat one of the most severe forms of seizures are given below:
- Dilantin (Phenytoin)
- Neurontin (Gabapentin)
- Lamictal (Lamotrigine)
- Gabitril (Tiagabine)
- Felbatol (Felbamate)
- Carbatrol (Carbamazepine)
However some of these medications may also be prescribed for partial and mixed seizures.
Caution
Keep in mind that medications prescribed for the treatment of seizures are classified as prescription drugs. They simply cannot be taken without consulting a well qualified doctor. Any medicine works, when it is taken in the right dosage. The same holds true for these medicines. An effective way to control seizures is to take the medicine in the correct dosage.
Side Effects
Even though these prescription drugs help to manage brain disorders, patients complain about few side effects. Usually, adverse reactions from these drugs do not occur when taken in the right dosage:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Unexplained weight gain
- Desire to eat food decreases
- Skin rash
Severe side effects such as speech problems, kidney stones and behavioral changes can also occur, but are a rarity. To be on the safer side, taking it in the prescribed dosage, as instructed by the doctor, is the key to lower the chances of side effects.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
