Author: Joshua Alexander, MD
COMMON USES:
Used to treat seizures.
Used to prevent seizures in children who have had a brain injury or recent brain surgery.
HOW IT'S SUPPLIED:
50-milligram tablets
30- and 100- milligram capsules
30- and 100- milligram extended release capsules
125 milligram / 5 milliliter suspension
HOW IT WORKS:
Slows the spread of seizure activity in the brain.
THINGS TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR:
* Can cause vision problems, decreased balance, slurred speech, decreased coordination, mental confusion, and/or increased hair growth.
* May also cause dizziness, difficulty falling asleep, nervousness, muscle twitching, and/or headache.
* If a rash occurs while on this medicine, contact your doctor immediately.
* Blood levels should be followed.
* Use with caution in children who have either liver or kidney disease.
* Don?t stop using this medicine suddenly as this may cause severe seizures.
* Long-term use may cause overgrowth of the gums.
*Long-term use may cause brittle bones or worsen diabetes.
*Tablets can be either chewed before being swallowed or swallowed whole.
* May cause urine to turn red.
* Affects the levels of other medicines in the bloodstream.
* Giving the drug during a tube feeding can interfere with the absorption of the drug and decrease its effectiveness.
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