Clinical pharmacology of anti-epileptic drugs: A summary of current information

Abstract

This compendium represents what is believed to be the most current and reliable pharmacological data on anticonvulsant drugs. The information presented is derived from determinations of the drugs in plasma or serum by gas-liquid chromatography in studies of the efficacy of anti-epileptic agents. Information on the limitations of therapeutic concentration ranges, half-lives, active and inactive metabolites, and structure/activity relationships of anticonvulsant drugs is presented. This report provides answers to many of the questions clinicians direct to anticonvulsant-monitoring laboratories. Information on other pharmacological variables supplements this review in the interest of the clinical investigator.