Question

Multiple-choice question: Which of the following medications used for seizures causes gingival hyperplasia, which is a side effect of the medication? A. Phenobarbital (Luminal) B. Valproic acid (Depakote) C. Carbamazapine (Tegretol) D. Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Short answer

D. Phenytoin (Dilantin) is the medication that causes gingival hyperplasia.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the medical term

Gingival hyperplasia is a medical term which describes an abnormal overgrowth of the gum tissue. It can be caused by various factors, one of which is certain medications.

Review options

The options A, B, C, and D present four medications used for seizures: Phenobarbital, Valproic acid, Carbamazapine, and Phenytoin.

Match medication with side effect

Phenytoin (Dilantin) is known to cause gingival hyperplasia. This is a common side effect in patients taking phenytoin for long periods.

Key concepts

Seizure Medications

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. Seizure medications, also known as anticonvulsants, are used to help control seizures in people with epilepsy or other seizure disorders. There is a variety of seizure medications on the market, each with specific mechanisms of action aimed at stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

Some of the commonly prescribed seizure medications include:

• Phenytoin (Dilantin): Often used for tonic-clonic and partial seizures.
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol): Suitable for tonic-clonic and focal seizures.
• Valproic acid (Depakote): Broad-spectrum seizure control.
• Phenobarbital (Luminal): Primarily used in pediatric patients.

It's essential to monitor the effectiveness and any side effects when taking these medications, as they can vary widely from person to person.

Gingival Hyperplasia

Gingival hyperplasia is an overgrowth of gum tissue that can lead to swollen, puffy gums that may bleed easily. While it can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene and certain systemic conditions, one of the well-documented side effects is from the use of certain medications.

Medications that are known to cause this condition include:

• Phenytoin (Dilantin), used to treat seizures
• Calcium channel blockers, used for treating hypertension
• Immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine, used in transplant patients

Apart from medication, factors like genetics, hormonal changes, and the presence of oral inflammation or irritation can also contribute to the development of gingival hyperplasia.

Medication Side Effects

Every medication has the potential to cause side effects, and seizure medications are no exception. Recognizing these side effects is crucial for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Common side effects of seizure medications may include:

• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Dizziness
• Skin rashes or allergic reactions
• Gastrointestinal issues, like nausea or vomiting
• Cognitive disturbances, such as trouble focusing or memory issues

Some side effects are more serious and require medical attention, such as the gingival hyperplasia associated with Phenytoin (Dilantin). Patients must communicate any concerning symptoms with their healthcare provider to manage them appropriately.

Nursing Examination Preparation

Preparing for nursing examinations like the NCLEX-RN requires a strategic approach. It's important for nursing candidates to familiarize themselves with the format of the exam and the type of questions that may be asked. Topics such as pharmacology are significant as they form a considerable part of the examination.

To prepare for questions on medications and their side effects, students should:

• Review various classes of drugs and their mechanisms of action
• Understand common side effects and adverse drug reactions
• Regularly take practice quizzes and engage in active recall for better retention
• Stay updated with current guidelines and best practices in medication administration

Investing time into understanding concepts deeply, rather than just memorizing, will lead to a more robust ability to apply knowledge in clinical situations.