The Role of Antiepileptic Drugs

Abstract

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) suppress seizures by acting on a variety of mechanisms and molecular targets involved in the regulation of neuronal excitability. These include inhibitory (GABAergic) and excitatory (glutamatergic) neurotransmission, as well as ion (sodium and calcium) conductance through voltage-gated channels. However, these mechanisms and targets are also implicated in the regulation of mood and behavior, which may explain why each AED is associated with specific psychotropic effects. This chapter will discuss the role of mechanisms and molecular targets of AEDs in mood and behavior, and review the positive and negative psychotropic effects of AEDs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)