Primidone

WHAT IS IT?

Primidone is a barbiturate medication that works by agonizing GABA signaling. It is the structural equivalent of phenobarbital.

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

Anticonvulsant: this medication can be used for seizures, but is typically more reserved for things like prophylactic management of tonic-clonic grand mal seizures that are refractory to other anticonvulsant therapy. It is typically no longer a first line anti-convulsant medication.

Essential tremorother then the beta-blocker propranolol, this medication is the first-line treatment for this condition.

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?

Anticonvulsant first line therapy: this medication typically will only be used if the patient has not responded to other anti-epileptic medications.

HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

This medication is administered orally.

Source
Source
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

Acute intermittent porphyria may be caused by this medication. This will manifest as abdominal pain, confusion, headaches, hallucinations, and dizziness.

FURTHER READING

DynaMed

UpToDate

 

Page Updated: 08.03.2016