Oxcarbazepine (By Mouth)

Oxcarbazepine (ox-kar-BAZ-e-peen)

Treats seizures caused by epilepsy in adults and children.

Brand Name(s):
Trileptal
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to oxcarbazepine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

 
• Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often. Do not use more of this medicine than your doctor ordered.  
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly or without talking with your doctor.  
• You may use the medicine with or without food.  
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.  
• Shake the oral liquid well just before using. You can take the medicine directly from syringe, or you can mix the medicine in a glass with a small amount of water. If you mix the medicine, drink the mixture right away. Do not save any mixture to use later.

If a dose is missed:

 
• Use your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.  
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.  
• Do not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

 
• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.  
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Dispose of any leftover oral liquid medicine 7 weeks after you open the bottle.  
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

 
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using any other medicines to control seizures, including carbamazepine (Tegretolreg;), phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantinreg;), or valproic acid (Depakotereg;).  
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

 
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.  
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to carbamazepine (Tegretolreg;).  
• If you are using birth control pills, they may not work as well while you are also using oxcarbazepine. Use a back-up form of birth control such as a diaphragm, condom, or spermicide.  
• This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Be careful when driving or doing anything that requires you to be alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

 
• Blurred vision or double vision  
• Rapid eye movements (especially in children)  
• Seizures  
• Trouble walking, speaking, or controlling body movement  
• Uncontrollable shaking  
• Visual changes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

 
• Dizziness  
• Drowsiness  
• Headache  
• Nausea or vomiting  
• Rash  
• Stomach pain or indigestion

Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.