Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

Which medication is noted for treating absence seizures?

1. Valproate

2. Levetiracetam

3. Ethosuximide

4. Carbamazepine

The correct answer is: Ethosuximide

Ethosuximide is specifically indicated for the treatment of absence seizures, which are characterized by brief episodes where the individual appears to be staring off into space and is unresponsive. Ethosuximide works by inhibiting calcium channels in the thalamus, which helps to reduce the frequency and severity of absence seizures. Other medications listed, while used in the treatment of epilepsy, are not first-line treatments for absence seizures. Valproate can treat a broader range of seizure types, including absence seizures, but it is more commonly used as an alternative. Levetiracetam is effective for generalized tonic-clonic seizures and focal seizures, but it is not primarily indicated for absence seizures. Carbamazepine is typically used for focal seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures, but it can exacerbate absence seizures, making it less suitable for that specific type. Thus, Ethosuximide stands out as the most appropriate and effective treatment for absence seizures.