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What is the name of the disorder of the brain characterized by recurring seizures?
What is the name of the disorder of the brain characterized by recurring seizures?
Epilepsy
Which of the following drugs is considered the drug of choice for controlling seizures in dogs and cats?
Which of the following drugs is considered the drug of choice for controlling seizures in dogs and cats?
Phenobarbital effectively controls seizures in 60-80% of epileptic dogs, provided the serum concentration is maintained within the recommended therapeutic range.
Phenobarbital effectively controls seizures in 60-80% of epileptic dogs, provided the serum concentration is maintained within the recommended therapeutic range.
True
What is the other name for Phenytoin?
What is the other name for Phenytoin?
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Phenytoin is a general anticonvulsant, like Phenobarbital.
Phenytoin is a general anticonvulsant, like Phenobarbital.
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Primidone has a hypnotic effect when used as an anticonvulsant in dogs.
Primidone has a hypnotic effect when used as an anticonvulsant in dogs.
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Primidone is metabolized into Phenobarbital and phenylethylmalonamide, which both have anticonvulsant effects.
Primidone is metabolized into Phenobarbital and phenylethylmalonamide, which both have anticonvulsant effects.
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Which of the following is NOT a toxic reaction associated with Primidone?
Which of the following is NOT a toxic reaction associated with Primidone?
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Diazepam is primarily used for the maintenance of seizures.
Diazepam is primarily used for the maintenance of seizures.
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What type of drug is Diazepam?
What type of drug is Diazepam?
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Diazepam is a good choice for controlling seizures in both dogs and cats.
Diazepam is a good choice for controlling seizures in both dogs and cats.
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What is Potassium bromide considered to be?
What is Potassium bromide considered to be?
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Potassium bromide is readily available in pharmaceutical grade.
Potassium bromide is readily available in pharmaceutical grade.
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Potassium bromide can be absorbed through the skin and is potentially toxic to humans.
Potassium bromide can be absorbed through the skin and is potentially toxic to humans.
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Clonazepam is considered a narrow-spectrum anticonvulsant.
Clonazepam is considered a narrow-spectrum anticonvulsant.
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Clonazepam can be used in combination with other anti-epileptic drugs.
Clonazepam can be used in combination with other anti-epileptic drugs.
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What are two side effects associated with Clonazepam use?
What are two side effects associated with Clonazepam use?
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Valproic acid is a narrow-spectrum anticonvulsant.
Valproic acid is a narrow-spectrum anticonvulsant.
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Valproic acid is absorbed slowly after oral administration.
Valproic acid is absorbed slowly after oral administration.
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Valproic acid has a long half-life.
Valproic acid has a long half-life.
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Study Notes
Anticonvulsants Overview
- Anticonvulsants are drugs used to control seizures in animals.
- Epilepsy is a brain disorder that leads to recurring seizures.
- Seizures, fits, and convulsions are synonyms for abnormal brain activity marked by sudden, uncontrolled electrical discharges.
Types of Anticonvulsants
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Phenobarbital:
- Drug of choice for dogs and cats with seizures.
- Effective in 60-80% of epileptic dogs when maintained within the therapeutic range (15-45 mcg/mL).
- Depresses the motor centers of the cerebral cortex, but doesn't prevent seizure spread.
- IV or oral administration; onset 12 hours after oral administration.
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Phenytoin:
- Also known as diphenylhydantoin.
- Depresses motor centers.
- Inhibits seizure spread to adjacent neural tissues.
- Not a general anticonvulsant like phenobarbital.
- Poor absorption from the canine gut; given orally or intravenously.
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Primidone:
- No hypnotic effect when used as an anticonvulsant for dogs.
- Toxic to cats.
- Metabolized into phenobarbital and phenylethylmalonamide, products with anticonvulsant effects.
- Common side effects include hepatotoxicity, polyphagia, polydipsia, sedation, and behavioral changes.
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Diazepam:
- A benzodiazepine.
- Used primarily to control status epilepticus (severe prolonged seizures).
- Not recommended for long-term maintenance therapy.
- Effective in cats but not typically used in dogs.
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Potassium Bromide (KBr):
- Effective in addition to phenobarbital, especially for clusters of seizures.
- Often mixed by a pharmacist due to unavailability in pharmaceutical grade.
- Can be absorbed through the skin and is toxic to humans.
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Clonazepam:
- A broad-spectrum anticonvulsant.
- Can be used with other anti-epileptic drugs.
- Causes drowsiness and ataxia (loss of balance) in a dose-dependent manner.
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Valproic Acid:
- Also a broad-spectrum anticonvulsant.
- Absorbed rapidly.
- Can displace bound phenytoin or phenobarbital, and metabolizes into non-anticonvulsant products.
- Has a relatively short half-life.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential aspects of anticonvulsants used to control seizures in animals, particularly focusing on their efficacy, types, and mechanisms of action. It provides an overview of key drugs like Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, and Primidone, along with their administration methods and effects. Ideal for veterinary students and professionals looking to enhance their understanding of seizure management in animals.
