Anticonvulsant activity: primidone acts as an anticonvulsant by increasing the threshold for seizure activity in the brain. It is thought to achieve this by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.
Sedative and hypnotic effects: primidone can cause sedation and drowsiness, especially when it is first started or when the dosage is increased. This can make it useful in the treatment of certain types of epilepsy, such as nocturnal seizures.
Treatment of essential tremor: primidone is also used in the treatment of essential tremor, which is a movement disorder that causes rhythmic shaking of the hands, head, or voice. The exact mechanism of action for primidone in essential tremors is not well understood.
Wide spectrum of efficacy: primidone is effective in treating a broad spectrum of seizures, including tonic-clonic seizures, partial seizures, myoclonic seizures, and absence seizures.
Side effects: primidone can cause a range of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Long-term use of the drug can lead to cognitive impairment and mood changes.
Dosage and administration: primidone is typically administered orally in tablet form, with dosages ranging from 125mg to 750mg per day, depending on the patient’s age, weight, and the severity of the condition being treated. The medication is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
