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The Sound of Evolution
Phenytoin
Mechanism of action:
Phenytoin is a hydantoin derivative. It blocks sodium channels in the inactivated state and prolongs the duration of channel inactivation, making neurons unable to generate another action potential within a short period. This has relatively little effect on normal low-frequency neuronal firing, but it selectively suppresses the high-frequency, synchronous discharges characteristic of epilepsy, thereby interrupting the spread of epileptic discharges through the cortex.
Reference(s):
1. Mallet L et al. (2007). The challenge of managing drug interactions in elderly people. Lancet.
2. Fischer JH et al. (2003). Fosphenytoin: clinical pharmacokinetics and comparative advantages in the acute treatment of seizures. Clin Pharmacokinet.
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