Trileptal (Oxcarbazepine)

Description

Trileptal is an anticonvulsant that is used to treat epileptic fits and seizures. This medication can be used alone or with a number of other anticonvulsants. The drug is also known as oxcarbazepine amongst medical professionals.

 

How It Works

 

As an anticonvulsant, this medication works by taking control over an individual’s nervous system. Since seizures and convulsions are most often caused as a result of abnormal behavior in the nervous system, this medication aims to bring balance to this system. Reducing the amount of nerve impulses can decrease seizures to a great extent.

 

Uses

 

This medication is mainly used to treat disorders that result in seizures. Epilepsy is one of the most commonly treated illnesses with the use of this medication. The medication is also useful in treating various types of nerve pains such as trigeminal neuralgia.

 

Dosage

 

This medication is taken twice a day, with or without food. Your prescription may slightly differ according to your medical history and response to the treatment. Do not attempt to increase the dosage of the medication without informing your physician. This can not only lead to overdose, but it can increase the risk of side effects as well.

 

Increasing the dosage will not enhance the effectiveness of the treatment but will only make the condition worse.

 

If you wish to benefit from this medication, then you need to stick to your schedule. Take this medication frequently without missing your doses. If you do, you must double the next dose. Just follow your regular timetable.

 

Side Effects

 

The following are some of the side effects of this medication that you may or may not experience during the treatment process.

 

 Problems with speech
 Problems with balance
 Trouble swallowing
 Painful mouth sores
 Liver problems
 Increased seizures
 Jaundice
 Muscle weakness
 Chest pain
 Signs of inflammation

 

If you experience any of the above symptoms, make sure to contact your healthcare provider for immediate medical attention.

 

 

Precautions

 

The following measures will enable you to reduce the risk of being affected the by the side effects of this medication.

 

 Do not consume alcohol with this medication since it can only enhance the risk of side effects.

 

 Do not drive after taking a dose since the drug can impair your thinking and reaction time.

 

 Drink plenty of fluids and avoid exercising outdoors since you can easily get dehydrated.

 

 Take frequent blood tests to keep an eye on your health condition.

 

 Do not stop the treatment abruptly. This can lead to painful withdrawal symptoms.

 

 If you are getting a surgery, inform your surgeon that you are taking Trileptal.

 

Self Administration

 

This medication can interact negatively with any of your current medications. So, make sure to inform your pharmacist about the prescription drugs and herbal treatments that you are currently taking. You also have to check the ingredients of the medication to ensure that you are not allergic to any of them.

 

Using this drug during periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect your child negatively. Therefore, if you become pregnant during the treatment process, make sure to inform your physician immediately.