ABSTRACT
Ethosuxitnide (ESM) is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; clinically significant plasma concentrations are achieved within 1 hour following a single dose, whereas peak levels occur within 3 to 7 hours. Clinical signs which may indicate a blood dyscrasia include fever, sore throat, petichiae, or intestinal bleeding. Complete blood counts should be performed monthly and periodically thereafter. Any granulopenia observed is likely to recover on reduction of the dose or discontinuation of the drug. In a group of carefully monitored subjects psychometric performance improved in almost half the subjects receiving ESM monotherapy therapy. A lupus-like syndrome has been reported in patients receiving ESM alone or in combination. Three types of reactions have been recognized: development of antinuclear antibodies; classic lupus-like illness with malar rash, arthritis, lymphadenopathy, pleural effusion, myocarditis, and pericarditis; autoimmune thyroiditis; and a systemic immunologic disorder which includes the nephrotic syndrome.
