Course Summary

Along with other antiseizure drugs, zonisamide is grouped by its principal mode of action, although multiple actions of zonisamide may exist. Zonisamide is considered a broad-spectrum anticovulsant with proven efficacy in randomized, controlled trials as add-on therapy for both focal and generalized seizures in adults and children. There has been clinical experience that indicates that zonisamide is an effective monotherapy for seizures, as well. Zonisamide is generally known to offer improved versatility with less side effects than other antiepileptic drugs, however a greater clinical understanding of zonisamide is needed. Cases of rare and life-threatening reactions to zonisamide, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported.

Course Format

Homestudy

Course Syllabus

• I.              Introduction
• II.           Pharmacological Profile
  • 1.         Category
  • 2.         Uses
  • 3.         Mechanism of Action
  • 4.         Available Forms
  • 5.         Dosing
  • 6.         Dosing Adjustment: Geriatric Patients
  • 7.         Dosing Adjustment: Hepatic Impairment
  • 8.         Dosing Adjustment: Renal Impairment
  • 9.         Contraindications
  • 10.     Warnings
  • 11.     Adverse Reactions
  • 12.     Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
  • 13.     Dietary Issues
• III.         Clinical Pearls: Zonisamide
• IV.          Zonisamide Overdose
• V.            Case Study
  • 1.   Discussion
• VI.          Summary