Felbamate

Felbamate is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat certain types of epilepsy. It is primarily prescribed for partial seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in individuals who have not responded adequately to other treatments. Felbamate works by affecting the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA and glutamate, which are involved in regulating nerve cell excitation.

The exact mechanism of action of felbamate is not fully understood but is believed to involve modulation of NMDA receptors and enhancement of GABAergic neurotransmission. This action helps to reduce the excessive electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures.

Felbamate is administered orally, typically as tablets or an oral suspension. The dosage is individualized based on the patient's response and tolerance. It is important to take felbamate exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Due to potential serious side effects, felbamate is generally reserved for cases where other treatments are ineffective. These side effects can include aplastic anemia and liver failure, which are rare but life-threatening. Other common side effects may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia. Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function is often recommended during treatment with felbamate. Due to these risks, its use has become more restricted over time.