How Do Anticonvulsant AMPA Glutamate Antagonists Work?

Anticonvulsant AMPA glutamate antagonists are drugs used to treat seizures (unusual electrical activity in the brain causing changes in behavior, movement, or feelings) in adults and children. They bind to the AMPA receptor present in the central nervous system (brain) and block the receptor. This prevents the entry of calcium and sodium into the brain cell; thus, the electrical signal is stopped. As the electrical signal is reduced, conduction in the brain is stabilized. 

AMPA glutamate antagonist anticonvulsants are used to treat:

• Partial onset seizures (abnormal electrical activity in only one area of the brain)
• Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (abnormal electrical activity throughout the brain involving loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions)

Side effects of anticonvulsant AMPA glutamate antagonists may include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Swelling of glands
• Muscle aches
• Severe weakness
• Weight gain
• Easily bruised 
• Yellowing of skin and eyes
• Irritability 
• Loss of coordination
• Mood disorders
• Serious psychotic effects
• Suicidal thoughts
• Blurred vision
• Anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction)
• Swelling of face, tongue, or throat
• Trouble breathing
• Skin rash and itching

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand name of anticonvulsant AMPA glutamate antagonist includes:

• Perampanel
• Fycompa