Mephenytoin
Mephenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication used primarily in the treatment of epilepsy. It belongs to the class of drugs known as hydantoins, which are used to control seizures by stabilizing neuronal membranes and decreasing the excitability of neurons.
Pharmacology
Mephenytoin works by inhibiting the spread of seizure activity in the motor cortex. It achieves this by reducing the post-tetanic potentiation at synapses, which helps to prevent the excessive neuronal firing that characterizes seizures. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys.
Indications
Mephenytoin is indicated for the management of various types of seizures, including tonic-clonic seizures and partial seizures. It is often prescribed when other anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin or carbamazepine, are not effective or cause adverse effects.
Side Effects
Common side effects of mephenytoin include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. More severe side effects can include liver toxicity, blood dyscrasias, and skin rashes. Patients taking mephenytoin should be monitored regularly for signs of toxicity and other adverse reactions.
Contraindications
Mephenytoin is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to hydantoins. It should also be used with caution in patients with impaired liver function, as the drug is extensively metabolized in the liver.
Drug Interactions
Mephenytoin can interact with other medications, including other anticonvulsants, anticoagulants, and certain antibiotics. These interactions can either increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of mephenytoin.
History
Mephenytoin was first synthesized in the early 20th century and has been used clinically since the 1940s. It was one of the first anticonvulsants to be developed and has paved the way for the development of newer, more effective seizure medications.
See Also
References
External Links
Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.
W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:
- Most insurances accepted or discounted self-pay rates. We will obtain insurance prior authorizations if needed.
- Generic GLP1 weight loss injections from $125 for the starting dose.
- Also offer prescription weight loss medications including Phentermine, Qsymia, Diethylpropion, Contrave etc.
NYC weight loss doctor appointments
Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.
- Call 718-946-5500 to lose weight in NYC or for medical weight loss in Philadelphia 215-676-2334.
- Tags:NYC medical weight loss, Philadelphia lose weight Zepbound NYC, Budget GLP1 weight loss injections, Wegovy Philadelphia, Wegovy NYC, Philadelphia medical weight loss, Brookly weight loss and Wegovy NYC
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
