Login
Cart
Store Locator | +1 234 567 890 | Contact us
English | Register
Login Register My Cart (0 items) - $0.00
Menu

Anti Convulsant

Understanding Anticonvulsants: A Guide to Seizure Management

Anticonvulsants, often referred to as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), are specialized medications designed to manage, prevent, and reduce the frequency of seizures and convulsions. While these terms are often used interchangeably—along with the colloquial term "fits"—there are clinical distinctions. Convulsions are specifically the physical symptoms of an epileptic seizure, involving involuntary muscle contractions.

Beyond epilepsy, anticonvulsants are versatile agents used to treat neuropathic pain conditions, such as Postherpetic Neuralgia and Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain. Its symptoms often range from mild to severe and include:

  • Muscle pain and joint tenderness

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Flu-like symptoms

Causes of Convulsions

In many cases, the root cause of epilepsy remains idiomatic (unknown). However, certain medical events and conditions are known to precipitate seizures, including:

  • Strokes or head injuries

  • High fevers

  • Oxygen deprivation to the brain

  • Brain infections (e.g., Meningitis)

  • Neurological diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s) or tumors

  • Congenital conditions

Signs, Symptoms, and Types of Seizures

Seizures manifest differently depending on which part of the brain is affected. They are generally categorized into the following types:

  • Absence Seizures: Characterized by a brief disconnection from surrounding stimuli. The individual may appear to "blank out" or feel absent from their body, returning to normal consciousness without memory of the event.

  • Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures: These begin with limb stiffness, often leading to a loss of consciousness. The individual may fall and experience involuntary muscle contractions, such as jaw clenching.

  • Partial Seizures: Originating in one specific side of the brain, these affect the corresponding side of the body. Symptoms may be simple or complex, often involving rhythmic jerking of fingers or hands.

The Impact of Severe Convulsions Generalized convulsions are the most common and dramatic form. They typically involve a loss of consciousness, leading to collapse. The body may become stiff and jerk continuously. During these episodes, patients risk injury from falling, biting the tongue, or experiencing a loss of bladder control.

Preventive Measures: Managing Triggers

For individuals living with epilepsy, lifestyle management is key. Avoiding specific triggers can significantly reduce seizure frequency:

  • Exposure to flashing or strobing lights (photosensitivity)

  • Excessive video game usage

  • Sleep deprivation

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

  • Alcohol or medication withdrawal

  • Illicit drug use (e.g., cocaine, heroin)

Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Epilepsy is contagious.

    • Fact: Epilepsy is a medical condition, much like asthma or diabetes. It cannot be transmitted through contact.

  • Myth: Epilepsy is caused by spiritual possession.

    • Fact: While some cultures historically attributed seizures to spiritual causes, modern medicine confirms epilepsy is a neurological condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing seizure disorders begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's personal and family medical history. This is followed by diagnostic procedures to identify underlying causes, such as tumors, clots, or brain damage. Common tests include:

  • Neurological Exams: Physical tests to check motor abilities and behavior.

  • Imaging & Monitoring: EEG (Electroencephalogram), CT scans, and MRI scans to map brain activity and structure.

  • Blood Tests: To rule out other conditions.

Treatment: How Anticonvulsants Work

Anticonvulsants work by stabilizing the nerve impulses in the brain. In a healthy brain, nerve cells communicate via controlled electrical signals. Seizures occur when these signals become erratic or uncontrolled.

While the exact mechanism varies, these medications are believed to influence neurotransmitters and receptors (such as glutamate) or alter electrical channels within nerve cells. By normalizing this electrical activity, anticonvulsants prevent the onset of seizures.

Common Anticonvulsant Medications available Online

  • Topiramate (Brand: Topamac): Used for epilepsy in adults and children (aged 2+). It is typically taken twice daily to reduce symptoms.

    • Note: It may take a few weeks to take full effect. Common, usually temporary side effects include dizziness, diarrhea, and sleepiness.

  • Lamotrigine (Brands: Lametec DT 50, Lametec 100 mg): Treats seizures in adults and children and serves as a mood stabilizer for adults with Bipolar Disorder, delaying mood episodes. It is often prescribed alongside other anti-seizure medications for long-term management.

  • Levetiracetam: A versatile drug used alone or in combination therapies. It treats partial-onset seizures (ages 1 month+), myoclonic epilepsy (ages 12+), and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (ages 6+).

  • Divalproex Sodium: Effective for seizure disorders, migraine prevention, and certain psychiatric conditions. It restores chemical balance in the brain and is approved for seizure treatment in patients 10 years and older.

Important Safety Information

  • Efficacy: Adherence is critical. More than 70% of patients who take their medication regularly experience a significant reduction in seizure attacks.

  • Consultation: Anticonvulsants are not suitable for everyone. Always disclose your full medical history and current medications to your doctor to avoid negative drug interactions.

  • Pregnancy Warning: Pregnant women should avoid these medications unless directed otherwise by a specialist, as they may carry a risk of congenital birth defects.

  • Withdrawal: Never alter dosages or stop taking medication abruptly. Doing so can trigger withdrawal symptoms or cause a relapse of seizures. Always follow medical advice regarding dosage adjustments.

These medications are available at leading online pharmacies, offering convenient access to affordable treatment.