Phenytoin works by
Solution
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to control seizures. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Here's a step-by-step explanation:
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Phenytoin is taken orally or injected into the body. Once inside the body, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream.
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It then travels to the brain, where it begins to take effect.
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In the brain, phenytoin works by stabilizing the electrical activity. It does this by reducing the movement of sodium ions in the brain.
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Sodium ions are necessary for the rapid transmission of electrical signals in the brain. These signals can become too fast, leading to a seizure.
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By reducing the movement of sodium ions, phenytoin slows down the transmission of these electrical signals.
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This helps to prevent the abnormal and rapid brain cell activity that causes seizures.
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Over time, with regular use, phenytoin can help to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
It's important to note that while phenytoin can help control seizures, it does not cure epilepsy and must be taken regularly to be effective.
Similar Questions
The principal metabolic pathway of phenytoin and phenobarbital in human is aromatic hydroxylation, catalyzed by CYP2C9 and CYP2C19. The reactive intermediate, arene oxide is deactivated by either epoxide hydrolase to dihydrodiol or by the action of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione S-transferase. The pathways of phenytoin metabolism are depicted below. Valproate metabolism by P450 CYP2C9 CYP2A6 Hypersensitivity reactions (idiosyncratic toxicity) to the aromatic antiepileptic drugs in susceptible individuals are believed to stem from the reactions of these reactive intermediates (i.e., arene oxide catechol or o-quinone) with hepatic enzymes or other cellular proteins forming covalently bonded haptens. • Both phenytoin and phenobarbital are potent liver enzyme inducers. (i) Explain why co-administering valproate with phenytoin will increase their idiosyncratic toxicities. (ii) Explain why there are cross-sensitivities in terms of idiosyncratic reactions between phenytoin, phenobarbital, and carbamazepine? (iii) Pharmacogenetic factors determine susceptibility to idiosyncratic reactions to anti-epileptic drugs. What genes may be involved in these reactions and what is the mechanism involved?
Phenytoin must be administered at a rate no faster than 50 mg/min. How many minutes would it take to administer 1 g?
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Hypersensitivity reactions (idiosyncratic toxicity) to the aromatic antiepileptic drugs in susceptible individuals are believed to stem from the reactions of these reactive intermediates (i.e., arene oxide catechol or o-quinone) with hepatic enzymes or other cellular proteins forming covalently bonded haptens. • Both phenytoin and phenobarbital are potent liver enzyme inducers. (i) Explain why co-administering valproate with phenytoin will increase their idiosyncratic toxicities. (ii) Explain why there are cross-sensitivities in terms of idiosyncratic reactions between phenytoin, phenobarbital, and carbamazepine? (iii) Pharmacogenetic factors determine susceptibility to idiosyncratic reactions to anti-epileptic drugs. What genes may be involved in these reactions and what is the mechanism involved?
When are drugs helpful?
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