17.6 : 抗癫痫药物：谷氨酸拮抗剂

Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, essential for neuronal communication.

It plays a crucial role in synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and plasticity, vital for cognition, learning, and memory.

The actions of glutamate are mediated by ionotropic glutamate receptors, including N-methyl-ᴅ-aspartate or NMDA and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid or AMPA receptors.

Glutamate antagonists inhibit the activity of glutamate receptors like NMDA and AMPA, reducing synaptic excitation. They effectively manage epileptic seizures.

One example of this drug class is used for generalized tonic-clonic, absence myoclonic, and atonic seizures. Perampanel and lamotrigine are prescribed for focal and generalized seizures.

These drugs are administered orally and are readily absorbed.

Potential side effects may include insomnia, nausea, skin rash, dizziness, and weight loss.