M. Trimble
1979
Citations
0
Influential Citations
23
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
Pharmacology & therapeutics. Part B: General & systematic pharmacology
Abstract
Abstract The literature reviewing data on the relationship between anticonvulsant drugs and cognitive abilities has been reviewed. The number of studies that have been completed is small, and many of the drugs used in the management of epileptic patients have not been assessed at all. It is concluded from the available literature that phenytoin, phenobarbitone, and primidone all effect cognitive abilities. Phenytoin and possibly primidone seem to be involved in the production of insidious deterioration of the mental state characterised by a progressive fall in the IQ, sometimes resulting in a picture of encephalopathy. The possible mechanisms of the production of these abnormalities has been discussed, in particular the relationship to folic acid and monoamine metabolism.