Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent seizures that can range from mild to severe. Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are medications that are used to control seizures in people with epilepsy. In this article, we will discuss the definition, meaning, and associations of anti-epileptic drugs.
Definitions
Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are medications that are used to treat seizures in people with epilepsy. These drugs work by reducing the electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. AEDs can be taken orally or by injection, and they are available in a variety of formulations, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and injections.
Origin
The term “anti-epileptic” is derived from the Greek words “anti,” which means “against,” and “epilepsy,” which is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. The first anti-epileptic drug, phenobarbital, was developed in 1912 and was used to treat seizures in people with epilepsy.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, anti-epileptic means “opposing or counteracting the effects of epilepsy.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines anti-epileptic as “a drug used to prevent or control seizures in people with epilepsy.”
Associations
Anti-epileptic drugs are commonly used to treat seizures in people with epilepsy. They are also used to treat other conditions, such as bipolar disorder, neuropathic pain, and migraine headaches. Some common anti-epileptic drugs include phenobarbital, carbamazepine, valproic acid, and lamotrigine.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of anti-epileptic drugs include anticonvulsant, antiepileptic, and seizure medication.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of anti-epileptic drugs, but some drugs may exacerbate seizures in people with epilepsy, such as certain antidepressants or stimulants.
The same root words
The root words of anti-epileptic are “anti,” which means “against,” and “epilepsy,” which is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Other words that share the same root words include anticonvulsant, antiepileptic, and antispasmodic.
Example Sentences
- My doctor prescribed an anti-epileptic drug to control my seizures.
- Anti-epileptic drugs can have side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness.
- People with epilepsy may need to take anti-epileptic drugs for their entire life.
- Anti-epileptic drugs have been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures.
- It is important to take anti-epileptic drugs as prescribed by your doctor to ensure that they are effective in controlling seizures.