Ethosuximide

Summary

Ethosuximide is an antiepileptic drug used to treat seizures. More specifically, it is a narrow-spectrum antiepileptic that is particularly effective for treating absence seizures.

Ethosuximide works by blocking voltage-dependent calcium channels in neurons. This decreases neuronal excitability and helps suppress seizure activity.

Common side effects of ethosuximide include sedation, vomiting, and dizziness.

Key Points

• Ethosuximide
  • Mechanism
    • Blocks voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels
      • In particular, blocks the thalamic T-type calcium channels
      • Inhibits the propagation of APs that trigger and sustain rhythmical burst discharges in thalamic neurons
  • Clinical Use
    • Antiepileptic
      • Narrow-spectrum
      • Treats absence seizures
        • First-line treatment for absence seizures
  • Side Effects
    • Sedation
    • Dizziness
    • Vomiting