Epilepsy is a common condition that affects the brain and causes frequent seizures. Seizures are bursts of electrical activity in the brain that temporarily affect how it works. They can cause a wide range of symptoms. Epilepsy can start at any age, but usually starts either in childhood or in people over 60.

This book is a comprehensive guide to the appropriate selection and usage of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).

Beginning with historical and pharmacological aspects, the next chapters examine older, newer and third generation antiepileptic drugs, highlighting key differences between each type.

The following sections cover the use of AEDs amongst different sectors of the population – children, geriatrics and those with comorbidities such as pregnancy and systemic disorders.

The book concludes with discussion on drug monitoring and management of status epilepticus (a single epileptic seizure lasting more than five minutes or two or more seizures within a five-minute period without the person returning to normal between them. It is a life-threatening medical emergency particularly if treatment is delayed).

Presented in a step by step format, the text is further enhanced by algorithms, tables and diagrams to assist understanding.

Key points

• Comprehensive guide to selection and usage of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
• Covers AED use amongst different sectors of the population
• Compares older, newer and third generation AEDs
• Highly illustrated with algorithms, tables and diagrams