Step 1: Concept
Felbamate is an anticonvulsant used for severe epilepsy, but its use is limited by serious side effects.
Step 2: Meaning
Reactive metabolites are chemically unstable intermediates formed during drug metabolism that can bind to cellular proteins and cause damage.
Step 3: Analysis
Felbamate is metabolized into atropaldehyde, a highly reactive alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehyde. This metabolite is believed to be responsible for the rare but fatal cases of aplastic anemia and liver failure.
Step 4: Conclusion
Both A and R are correct, and the formation of these metabolites explains the toxicity.
Final Answer: (A)