Friday, May 16, 2008

Treatment of posttraumatic seizures

1. When is phenytoin useful as prophylaxis against PTS?
2. What are the two drugs of choice for treatment of PTS? Why are these drugs thought to be superior?
3. How long should anticonvulsants be used?

Answers:
1. Only during the first week post-injury. Anticonvulsants are usually started after late seizures occur.
2. Carbamazepine (for partial seizures) and valproic acid (for generalized seizures) are preferred over phenytoin and phenobarbital due to less sedation and adverse cognitive effects.
3. After 1-2 years seizure-free interval.

No comments: