phenacemide

Phenacemide is a small molecule anticonvulsant of the ureide (acetylurea) class, structurally related to phenytoin and barbiturates. It was introduced in 1949 for the treatment of epilepsy, specifically for controlling severe forms such as mixed complex partial (psychomotor or temporal lobe) seizures that are refractory to other anticonvulsants. Its mechanism of action involves binding to and blocking neuronal sodium channels or voltage-sensitive calcium channels, thereby suppressing neuronal depolarization and hypersynchronization—key processes underlying seizure activity. Phenacemide is almost completely absorbed after oral administration and metabolized in the liver by p-hydroxylation. Due to significant toxicity concerns—including nephropathy, blood dyscrasias, and severe skin reactions—it has been withdrawn from most markets[1][3][5][6].

Brand names

Phenurone

Other names

phenylacetylurea