Oxcarbazepine (By Mouth)

Oxcarbazepine (ox-kar-BAZ-e-peen)

Treats seizures caused by epilepsy in adults and children.

Brand Name(s):

Trileptal
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to oxcarbazepine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often. Do not use more of this medicine than your doctor ordered.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly or without talking with your doctor.
• You may use the medicine with or without food.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Shake the oral liquid well just before using. You can take the medicine directly from syringe, or you can mix the medicine in a glass with a small amount of water. If you mix the medicine, drink the mixture right away. Do not save any mixture to use later.

If a dose is missed:

• Use your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• Do not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Dispose of any leftover oral liquid medicine 7 weeks after you open the bottle.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using any other medicines to control seizures, including carbamazepine (Tegretol®), phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin®), or valproic acid (Depakote®).
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to carbamazepine (Tegretol®).
• If you are using birth control pills, they may not work as well while you are also using oxcarbazepine. Use a back-up form of birth control such as a diaphragm, condom, or spermicide.
• This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Be careful when driving or doing anything that requires you to be alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Blurred vision or double vision
• Rapid eye movements (especially in children)
• Seizures
• Trouble walking, speaking, or controlling body movement
• Uncontrollable shaking
• Visual changes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rash
• Stomach pain or indigestion

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.