paramethadione Health Article

Generic name(s):

paramethadione

Brand name(s):

Paradione

What is the most important information I should know about paramethadione?

Do not stop taking your medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking paramethadione to prevent your seizures from recurring.

Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Paramethadione may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What is paramethadione?

Paramethadione is a seizure medication. The exact way that it works is unknown.

Paramethadione is used to control absence ("petit mal") seizures.

Paramethadione may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take paramethadione?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• liver disease,
• kidney disease,

• retinal or optic nerve (eye) disease,

• a disease of you blood or bone marrow, or

• acute intermittent porphyria.

You may not be able to take paramethadione, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Paramethadione is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to cause harm to an unborn baby. Malformations of the face and head, heart, and nervous system have been reported. Do not take paramethadione without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether paramethadione passes into breast milk and how it might affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding or would like to breast-feed a baby.

How should I take paramethadione?

Take paramethadione exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose of paramethadione with a full glass of water. Paramethadione can be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.

Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.

Do not stop taking your medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking paramethadione to prevent your seizures from recurring. Store paramethadione at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical treatment.

Symptoms of a paramethadione overdose include dizziness, drowsiness, an uncoordinated feeling, nausea, vomiting, and changes in vision.

What should I avoid while taking paramethadione?

Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can cause deep sedation or sleepiness. It may also increase your risk of having seizures. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Paramethadione may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Paramethadione may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable.