Oxcarbazepine
Seizures and epilepsyAlso known as Trileptal
Oxcarbazepine calms the runaway electrical signals that cause seizures. It's closely related to carbamazepine but tends to have fewer drug interactions. One thing to watch: it can lower the sodium in your blood, especially in the first few months — that shows up as headache, nausea, confusion, or feeling foggy, and it's worth a call to your doctor.
How to take it
When
Usually twice a day, at the same times each day.
Food
With or without food.
Avoid
Alcohol — it adds to the drowsiness. Don't drive until you know how this affects you; seizure driving laws also apply.
Good to know
It can make hormonal birth control less reliable — ask your doctor about backup options.
Missed a dose?
Take it when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose — then skip it. Missed doses can trigger seizures, so ask your doctor ahead of time what to do. Never take a double dose.
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness or tiredness
- Double vision
- Nausea
- Feeling unsteady
Call a doctor if
- A spreading rash, blisters, or rash with fever — serious skin reactions can happen; get help now
- A seizure that won't stop — call emergency services
- Headache, confusion, nausea, and low energy together — can mean low blood sodium; call your doctor now
- Thoughts of harming yourself, or new or worsening depression — get help now