Pharmacology · Antiepileptics and CNS Drugs (Antipsychotics, Antidepressants, Sedatives)

Which antiepileptic drug is associated with nephrolithiasis, weight loss, paresthesias of the extremities, and word-finding difficulties as characteristic adverse effects?

  • A Zonisamide
  • B Topiramate
  • C Felbamate
  • D Rufinamide
Correct answer: B. Topiramate

Explanation

Topiramate inhibits carbonic anhydrase, producing bicarbonaturia, alkaline urine, and calcium phosphate stones; it also blocks AMPA/kainate receptors and sodium channels. Its cognitive profile includes word-finding difficulty and psychomotor slowing, while anorexia and weight loss are common. Zonisamide shares the sulfonamide structure and can cause stones, but the classic tetrad of stones plus weight loss plus cognitive slowing points to topiramate.

Reference: Katzung Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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