title: Review of the newer antiepileptic drugs.
abstract: This review article discusses the newer anti-epileptic drugs gabapentin, lamotrigine, tiagabine, topiramate, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, and zonisamide. Emphasis is given to FDA-approved indications and place in therapy. The mechanisms of action and pharmacokinetics of each drug is provided and the most common adverse effects are reviewed. Clinical studies leading to FDA approval are discussed. Practical points on proper dosing and monitoring are stressed, and drug interactions are also included.
authors.affiliation: Regional Medical Center, Memphis, Tenn, USA.
authors.forename: Angel
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Tidwell
authors.forename: Melanie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Swims
mesh_terms: D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D017277:Drug Approval; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004513:Education, Pharmacy, Continuing; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants