Epilepsies membrane effects

Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid 4.235) is an inhibitory neurochemical that probably acts primarily as a neuromodulator rather than a neurotransmitter. It is formed from cysteine, and its accumulation can be prevented by the cardiac glycoside ouabain. Although receptor sites and specific actions cannot be elucidated without an antagonist, taurine has been implicated in epilepsy and, potentially, in heart disease. There are a large number of physiological effects attributed to taurine, among them cardiovascular (antiarrythmic), central (anticonvulsant, excitability modulation), muscle (membrane stabilizer), and reproductive (sperm motility factor) activity. Analogs of taurine, phthalimino-taurinamide (4.236) and its iV-alkyl derivatives, are less polar than taurine and are potent anticonvulsant molecules. 

Phenytoin s five-decades long existence as a clinical entity makes it one of the most studied anticonvulsants. In addition, it has antiarrhythmic activity (Chapter 10). At the physiological level the drug has been shown to influence ion conductance, neuronal membrane potentials, and the levels of most of the neurotransmitters discussed, including GABA. The extent to which any of these effects affect epilepsy is still not clear. Nevertheless, more recent research seems to point the finger toward a potentiation of GABA-mediated inhibition, at least as part of the answer. Valproic acid (Fig. 12-5) and... 

Yarrow stops bleeding wounds and is used as a healing lotion and ointment. It also is used to reduce pain and heavy bleeding due to menstrual irregularities and helps to regulate the menstrual cycle. Yarrow enhances circulation, lowers blood pressure, and has an antispasmodic and anti-microbial effect. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect on skin and on mucous membranes. The most frequently reported side effect of Yarrow is dermatitis (skin rash). Yarrow should not be used for patients who have epilepsy or are pregnant. 

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