Indications
Trileptal is a prescription anticonvulsant medication used to treat certain types of seizures in people diagnosed with epilepsy. Oxcarbazepine, the active ingredient in Tripletail, is an anti-epileptic drug, or AED, and can also be used to treat bipolar disorder. It works by blocking sodium channels in the brain, which helps to reduce abnormal electrical activity and prevent seizures.
Oxcarbazepine can be used off-label to treat other medical conditions, such as bipolar disorder and migraine headaches in adults and children. It reduces abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which helps to prevent seizures.
Uses and Dosage
Oxcarbazepine is available in tablet form and should be taken orally with or without food as directed by your doctor. To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and inform them and your pharmacist of all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and any other medications you may be taking. The children's dosage is also based on their weight. In general, the starting dose of Trileptal is 300 mg twice per day, and the maximum recommended dose is 2400 mg per day for adults and 60 mg/kg/day for children.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Trileptal (Oxcarbazepine):
- Dizziness
- Double vision/vision changes
- Eye twitching
- Feeling like the world is spinning
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sleepiness/tired feeling
- Stomach pain
- Tremors
- Trouble walking/problems balancing
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Trileptal (Oxcarbazepine):
- Acne
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nervousness
- Runny nose
- Swelling in the arms and legs
- Trouble speaking
- Upset stomach
- Weakness
- Weight gain
Form and Strength
Trileptal (Oxcarbazepine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Trileptal: Tablet
- 150 mg
- 300 mg
- 600 mg
Oxcarbazepine: Tablet
- 150 mg
- 300 mg
- 600 mg
Caution
- Trileptal should not be used if you are allergic to oxcarbazepine or eslicarbazepine. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat.
- Trileptal can cause low levels of sodium in the blood, which can be life-threatening in severe cases. Symptoms of hyponatremia may include headache, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and confusion.
- Oxcarbazepine may have harmful effects on a developing fetus, so it should not be used during pregnancy unless necessary. It can also pass into breastmilk, but the amount is low and there are no reports of harmful effects in breastfed infants.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or actions, liver, or kidney problems, or if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, or vitamins.
- Trileptal can affect liver function, so blood tests to monitor liver enzymes may be necessary.
- Oxcarbazepine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in patients with a history of depression or mood disorders.
- Trileptal may interact with other medications, including birth control pills, and reduce their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
- Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Trileptal, and caution should be used when prescribing and adjusting the dosage.
- Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) can cause sleepiness and dizziness. Drinking alcohol can make these side effects much worse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Trileptal be taken with other medications?
Trileptal can interact with other medications, to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Trileptal.
How long does it take for Trileptal to start working?
Trileptal can start to reduce seizures within a few weeks of starting treatment. Usually, it takes between 2 to 4 weeks for oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) to fully kick in.
Is Trileptal safe to take during pregnancy?
Trileptal may not be safe to take during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with Trileptal with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
REVIEWS