Oxcarbazepine Oral suspension Health Article

Generic name(s):

Oxcarbazepine Oral suspension

Brand name(s):

Trileptal

What is this medicine?

OXCARBAZEPINE (ox car BAZ e peen) is used to treat people with epilepsy. It helps prevent partial seizures.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
• any unusual or allergic reaction to oxcarbazepine, carbamazepine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake the bottle well before each use. The suspension comes with a special oral syringe that will allow you to carefully measure the dose needed. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. The dose may be mixed in a small glass of water before it is swallowed, or you can take the medicine directly from the syringe. Be sure to take the entire dose. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• carbamazepine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• birth control pills
• chlorpropamide
• cyclophosphamide
• diuretics
• octreotide
• other medicines for seizures like phenobarbital, phenytoin, valproic acid
• some medicines for high blood pressure like felodipine, diltiazem, verapamil
• vincristine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.