Trimethadione is an anticonvulsant agent indicated for the control of treatment-refractory petit mal seizures. An anticonvulsant effective in absence seizures, but generally reserved for refractory cases because of its toxicity. Paramethadione and trimethadione are anticonvulsants indicated in the control of absence (petit mal) seizures that are refractory to treatment with other medications. Dione anticonvulsants are used in the treatment of epilepsy. They act on the central nervous system (CNS) to reduce the number of seizures. Dione anticonvulsants reduce T-type calcium currents in thalamic neurons, including thalamic relay neurons. It does so via the inhibition of voltage dependent T-type calcium channels. This raises the threshold for repetitive activity in the thalamus, and inhibits corticothalamic transmission. Thus, the abnormal thalamocortical rhythmicity, which is thought to underlie the 3-Hz spike-and-wave discharge seen on electroencephalogram(EEG) with absence seizures, is dampened. GABA release is inhibited due to mutations of the SCN1A, SCN1B gene causing enhanced reuptake. Possible side effects of using trimethadione may include tiredness, changes in weight, hiccups, and headache.

Trimethadione Pathway References