Ethosuximide (Ethosuximide)
Overview of Ethosuximide
Ethosuximide is antiepileptic agent. It was introduced in 1960 as the third of three marketed succinimides. its origin is in the cyclic ureide structure. It has a considerable efficasy against pentylenetetrazol seizures and was introduced as a 'pure petit mal' drug. its popularity continues, based on its safety and efficasy. its role as the first choice anti-absence drug remains undiminished, in part because of the idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity of the alternative drug, valproic acid. Ethosuximide is administered orally.
Indication of Ethosuximide
Ethosuximide is primarily indicated in conditions like Generalised epilepsy with absence seizures, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Myoclonic seizures.
Contraindication of Ethosuximide
Ethosuximide is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity to any component of product.
Side Effects of Ethosuximide
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Ethosuximide, which give rise to further complications include Erythema multiforme, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Tonic-clonic seizures.,Ethosuximide produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bone marrow suppression. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Ethosuximide therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Ethosuximide include Drowsiness, Headache, Lethargy, Dysequilibrium, Unsteadiness.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Ethosuximide are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia, GI symptoms, Hiccups, Abdominal discomfort.
Precautions of Ethosuximide
Ethosuximide should be used with extreme caution in patients with hepatic disease because the drug has been associated with the onset of hepatitis and jaundice. Liver function tests (LFT) should be performed periodically. Ethosuximide should be used with caution in patients with intermittent porphyria because it could exacerbate it. Ethosuximide should be used with extreme caution in patients with renal disease. Urinalysis should be performed regularly, especially in patients at risk. It should be used with caution in patients with blood dyscrasias or any hematological disease. It should be used with caution in patients with a known succinimide hypersensitivity. It should be used with caution during pregnancy. Safe use has not been established. Avoid abrupt discontinuation because abrupt discontinuation of ethosuximide can precipitate seizures. Withdraw drug slowly upon the appearance of unusual depression, aggressiveness or other behavioral alteration.