Author: Rob Heros and Joshua Alexander
COMMON USES:
Used to prevent both generalized and partial seizures.
HOW IT?S SUPPLIED:
Tablets are available in 25 milligram, 100 milligram, and 200 milligram doses.
Sprinkle Capsules are available as 15- and 25-milligram capsules that can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled onto soft food.
HOW IT WORKS:
While scientists are not yet sure how this medicine stops seizures, it is thought that it works by blocking increased nerve activity and by helping other chemicals in the body that act to block nerve firing.
THINGS TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR:
* May cause mood swings, excessive tiredness and fatigue, confusion, word-finding difficulties and/or dizziness.
* May decrease sweating and lead to high body temperatures.
* Can cause low bicarbonate levels in the blood that may lead to rickets and decreased height as an adult.
* Blood bicarbonate levels should be checked periodically by your doctor.
* May cause weight loss or diarrhea
* Most side effects can be prevented by starting out on a low dose and increasing it over time.
* Contact your doctor if redness of the eyes or eye pain occur after starting this medicine.
* Be sure to drink plenty of liquids while taking this medicine to avoid developing kidney stones
* Don?t run out of this medicine or stop taking it suddenly as this may cause seizures.
* May be useful in treating infantile spasms.
|
