Pharmacotherapy of Epilepsy and Movement Disorders

This topic delivers an advanced overview of the pharmacotherapy for epilepsy and movement disorders, a cornerstone of neurology education for tertiary medical and pharmacy students in Zambia. It covers the classification of seizures, the mechanisms of action of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) such as sodium channel blockers, GABA enhancers, and calcium channel antagonists, and their specific roles in different seizure types. The management of status epilepticus is discussed in detail. Furthermore, the topic explores the pathophysiology and drug treatment of Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea, and drug-induced movement disorders, focusing on dopaminergic and anticholinergic strategies. Zambian college and university students will learn to develop evidence-based treatment plans, manage adverse effects, and understand therapeutic drug monitoring. This knowledge is critical for success in pharmacology and neurology examinations, clinical clerkships, and for managing these chronic neurological conditions within the Zambian healthcare system.