Why is this medication prescribed?

Eslicarbazepine is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy. It is a third-generation antiepileptic drug (AED) and is used either alone or in combination with other medications to control seizures in adults with partial-onset seizures, which are a type of epilepsy where seizures originate from a specific area of the brain.

Eslicarbazepine works by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels, which helps to stabilize electrical activity in the brain and prevent abnormal firing of neurons that can lead to seizures.

How should this medicine be used?

Eslicarbazepine is typically used to treat epilepsy, specifically partial-onset seizures. Here’s how it is commonly used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Eslicarbazepine can vary based on factors such as the individual’s age, weight, kidney function, and other medications they may be taking. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare provider.
• Administration: Eslicarbazepine is taken orally in tablet form. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They can be taken with or without food.
• Frequency: Eslicarbazepine is usually taken once daily. It’s important to take it regularly and consistently at the same time each day to maintain stable blood levels of the medication and effectively control seizures.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling up on doses to make up for a missed one should be avoided.
• Duration of Treatment: Eslicarbazepine is typically used as a long-term treatment to manage epilepsy. It’s important to continue taking it even if seizures are well-controlled unless otherwise instructed by a healthcare professional.
• Monitoring: While taking Eslicarbazepine, regular monitoring may be necessary to check for any potential side effects and to ensure the medication is effectively controlling seizures. Blood tests may also be required to monitor Eslicarbazepine levels in the bloodstream.

It’s crucial to follow the advice and instructions provided by a healthcare professional regarding the use of Eslicarbazepine. They can provide personalized guidance based on individual circumstances and medical history. Additionally, any concerns or questions about the medication should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Eslicarbazepine is primarily used for the treatment of epilepsy, specifically partial-onset seizures. However, it’s worth noting that some off-label uses for Eslicarbazepine have been explored, though evidence for these uses may be limited. These potential off-label uses may include neuropathic pain and bipolar disorder. However, the decision to use Eslicarbazepine for these conditions would typically be made by a healthcare professional based on individual circumstances.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Eslicarbazepine or any medication, it’s important to follow special precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:

• Medical History: Before starting Eslicarbazepine, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, pre-existing medical conditions, and other medications or supplements you are taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Eslicarbazepine with your healthcare provider. It’s important to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the benefits of seizure control.
• Liver Function: Eslicarbazepine is metabolized in the liver, so individuals with liver impairment may require dosage adjustments or closer monitoring while taking this medication.
• Kidney Function: Eslicarbazepine is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys. Individuals with impaired kidney function may require dosage adjustments or closer monitoring to prevent accumulation of the medication in the body.
• Drug Interactions: Eslicarbazepine can interact with other medications, including certain antiepileptic drugs, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and oral contraceptives. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: Like many antiepileptic drugs, Eslicarbazepine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Monitor for any changes in mood or behavior and report them to your healthcare provider immediately.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Eslicarbazepine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Use caution until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Eslicarbazepine, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood levels of Eslicarbazepine may be necessary to ensure the medication is within the therapeutic range and to minimize the risk of side effects.

It’s crucial to discuss any questions or concerns about Eslicarbazepine with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your individual circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Eslicarbazepine, it can generally be taken with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset when taking the medication, you may try taking it with food to see if it helps alleviate any discomfort.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Eslicarbazepine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the medication’s effectiveness in controlling seizures.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eslicarbazepine, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of Eslicarbazepine may include:

• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
• Somnolence: Excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach, sometimes leading to vomiting.
• Headache: Pain or discomfort in the head.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
• Double Vision: Seeing two images instead of one.
• Ataxia: Difficulty with coordination and balance.
• Tremor: Involuntary shaking movements.
• Vertigo: Sensation of spinning or dizziness.
• Hyponatremia: Low levels of sodium in the blood, which can cause symptoms like confusion, headache, nausea, and seizures.

Less common but more severe side effects may include:

• Serious Skin Reactions: Such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, which can cause severe skin blistering and peeling.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Including rash, fever, and liver problems.
• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: In rare cases, antiepileptic drugs like Eslicarbazepine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.

It’s essential to promptly report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, if you experience severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

This list of side effects is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Always read the medication leaflet provided with Eslicarbazepine for comprehensive information on potential side effects and precautions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Eslicarbazepine:

• Storage: Store Eslicarbazepine tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Eslicarbazepine tablets properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to safely dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose of Eslicarbazepine, seek emergency medical attention or call your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness. Be prepared to provide information about the dosage and timing of the medication ingested.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid suddenly stopping Eslicarbazepine without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can increase the risk of seizure recurrence.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (such as doctors, dentists, and pharmacists) about your use of Eslicarbazepine, as it may interact with other medications or affect certain medical procedures.
• Carry identification (such as a medical alert bracelet or card) indicating that you are taking Eslicarbazepine in case of emergencies.
• Be cautious when drinking alcohol while taking Eslicarbazepine, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
• If you are planning to undergo surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about your use of Eslicarbazepine, as it may affect the choice of anesthesia and other medications used during the procedure.
• Keep track of your seizures and any changes in their frequency or severity while taking Eslicarbazepine, and report them to your healthcare provider.

It’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure the safe and effective use of Eslicarbazepine. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.