Oxcarbazepine
Oxcarbazepine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Oxcarbazepine is a brand name. Its generic name is Oxcarbazepine.
Introduction
Oxcarbazepine is an anticonvulsant drug used to treat seizures in adults and children over the age of 6. It belongs to the class of medication known as anticonvulsants or anti-epileptics. The chemical structure of oxcarbazepine is the same as the chemical structure of carbamazepine but has more potential to treat epilepsy.Uses for Oxcarbazepine
Oxcarbazepine is commonly used to treat epilepsy or generalised tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children over the age of 6 and partial-onset seizures in adults. Oxcarbazepine may also be used to treat bipolar disorder or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN).Mechanism of Action
Oxcarbazepine works by inhibiting voltage-sensitive sodium channels and increasing the elimination of glutamate. In doing so, it reduces the spread of seizure activity in the brain and helps to prevent recurrent seizures.How Long Does It Take to Work?
Oxcarbazepine typically takes up to two weeks to take effect, with the clinically significant results usually observed within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment. It is important to take the medication as prescribed.Absorption
Oxcarbazepine is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral ingestion and is absorbed more efficiently when given with food. The half-life of the drug is 8.5 to 10.9 hours.Route of Elimination
Oxcarbazepine is eliminated primarily by the liver and kidneys. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the kidneys as metabolites.Dosage
The dosage of oxcarbazepine varies greatly depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and the severity of the disease. For adults with epilepsy, the recommended starting dose is 300mg twice daily. For children 6-12 years old, the dosage is 10-15mg/kg per day, divided in two or three doses.Administration
Oxcarbazepine is typically administered orally as tablets or suspension.Side Effects
Common side effects associated with oxcarbazepine may include tiredness, difficulty sleeping, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Contact your doctor if you experience any serious side effects or if the side effects persist.Toxicity
Overdose of oxcarbazepine may cause serious health problems like seizures, heart problems, or even death. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose.Precautions
Oxcarbazepine may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision; do not drive, use machines, or do anything that requires alertness until you can do it safely. Alcohol interaction with oxcarbazepine can increase the risk of side effects.Interaction
Oxcarbazepine may interact with other medications, supplements, or herbs, such as barbiturates, antidepressants, anticonvulsant medications, or antibiotics. Consult your doctor before taking any other drugs with this medication.Disease Interaction
Oxcarbazepine may interact with certain diseases, such as liver disease, kidney disease, bipolar disorder, depression, or others. Consult your doctor if you suffer from any of the above conditions.Drug Interactions
Oxcarbazepine may interact with other drugs, such as antifungal medications, birth control pills, antibiotics, blood thinners, heart medications, or HIV medications. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other drugs that you are taking.Food Interactions
Oxcarbazepine may interact with certain foods, such as grapefruit, and alcohol. Avoid taking this medication with alcohol, and consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms after eating certain foods.Pregnancy Use
Oxcarbazepine should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your doctor before using this medication.Lactation Use
Oxcarbazepine is excreted in breast milk and may pose a risk to the infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.Acute Overdose
Acute overdose of oxcarbazepine may lead to symptoms such as drowsiness, severe nausea or vomitin, and coma. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the symptoms.Contraindication
Oxcarbazepine is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to oxcarbazepine, or other ingredients in the formulation.Use Direction
Oxcarbazepine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the dosage instructions on the package label. Do not take more or less than the prescribed amount.Storage Condition
Oxcarbazepine should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.Volume of Distribution
Oxcarbazepine has a volume of distribution of 0.24 – .34 L/kg.Half-Life
The half-life of oxcarbazepine is 8.5 – 10.9 hours.Clearance
Oxcarbazepine has an average clearance of 2.06 mL/minute/kg.Here you find in details version of Oxcarbazepine
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Oxcarbazepine
What is Oxcarbazepine?
Oxcarbazepine is a prescription medication used to treat partial seizures in adults and children over the age of four with epilepsy.
How does Oxcarbazepine work?
Oxcarbazepine works by helping to decrease the abnormal electrical activity in the brain associated with seizures.
What are the side effects of Oxcarbazepine?
The most common side effects associated with Oxcarbazepine include headache, dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision.
Who should not take Oxcarbazepine?
Oxcarbazepine should not be taken by individuals with a prior history of hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug, or to any of its components.
What other drugs may interact with Oxcarbazepine?
Some drugs that may interact with Oxcarbazepine include warfarin, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, cimetidine, lithium, and rifampin.
What should be avoided when taking Oxcarbazepine?
Alcohol and certain over-the-counter medications should be avoided while taking Oxcarbazepine.
Are there any special instructions for taking Oxcarbazepine?
Oxcarbazepine should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor and should not be stopped suddenly without the doctor’s advice.
What is the usual dosage for Oxcarbazepine?
The usual dose of Oxcarbazepine is 300-1,200 mg daily, divided into two or three doses.
What is the onset of action for Oxcarbazepine?
The onset of action for Oxcarbazepine is typically one to two hours after a single dose, but may vary depending on the individual.
How often should Oxcarbazepine be taken?
Oxcarbazepine should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. This usually involves taking the medication twice or three times a day.
What should be done if a dose of Oxcarbazepine is missed?
If a dose of Oxcarbazepine is missed, the patient should take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, the patient should skip the missed dose and take the next one instead.
What form is Oxcarbazepine available in?
Oxcarbazepine is available in tablet, oral suspension, and solution form.
How should Oxcarbazepine be stored?
Oxcarbazepine should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light, heat, and moisture.
Is Oxcarbazepine safe during pregnancy?
Oxcarbazepine is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, however, it is best to speak with a doctor before taking this medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause weight gain?
Weight gain has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Is Oxcarbazepine safe for children?
Oxcarbazepine is approved by the FDA for use in children over the age of four for the treatment of partial seizures.
Is Oxcarbazepine habit forming?
Oxcarbazepine is not considered to be habit forming.
Can Oxcarbazepine cause drowsiness?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and/or blurred vision. Patients should refrain from driving or operating machinery until they are aware of how the medication affects them.
Can Oxcarbazepine be taken with other medications?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine can be taken with other medications, however, it is important to discuss with a doctor and/or pharmacist before taking any other medications with Oxcarbazepine as drug interactions may occur.
What are the most common side effects of Oxcarbazepine?
The most common side effects associated with Oxcarbazepine include headache, dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision.
Is Oxcarbazepine safe for long-term use?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine is generally considered safe for long-term use, however, it is always important to discuss treatment options with a doctor to ensure that it is the best option for the individual's needs.
What is the brand name for Oxcarbazepine?
The brand name for Oxcarbazepine is Trileptal.
What is the half life of Oxcarbazepine?
The half life of Oxcarbazepine is 10 hours.
What is the therapeutic range for Oxcarbazepine?
The therapeutic range for Oxcarbazepine is 5-20 mcg/ml.
What is the onset of effect when taking Oxcarbazepine?
The onset of effect when taking Oxcarbazepine is usually 1 to 2 hours after a single dose, however, this may vary depending on the individual.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Oxcarbazepine?
If you experience an allergic reaction to Oxcarbazepine, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, rash, difficulty breathing, and/or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Are there any natural alternatives to Oxcarbazepine?
Some natural alternatives to Oxcarbazepine may include omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, acetyl-L-carnitine, certain herbs, and dietary changes.
Can Oxcarbazepine be crushed?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine tablets can be crushed before being taken.
Can Oxcarbazepine be taken with food?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine can be taken with food to help reduce some of the common side effects.
What is the maximum dose of Oxcarbazepine?
The maximum recommended dose of Oxcarbazepine is 1,200 mg per day.
How long does it take for Oxcarbazepine to work?
The onset of effect for Oxcarbazepine is typically 1 to 2 hours after a single dose, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
What is the bioavailability of Oxcarbazepine?
The bioavailability of Oxcarbazepine is approximately 85%.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause hair loss?
Hair loss has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause constipation?
Yes, constipation has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Can Oxcarbazepine be taken with other anticonvulsants?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine can be taken with other anticonvulsants, however, it is important to discuss with a doctor and/or pharmacist before taking any other medications with Oxcarbazepine as drug interactions may occur.
Are there any interactions between Oxcarbazepine and birth control?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine may interact with some birth control medications. It is important to discuss your specific medications with a doctor or pharmacist.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause blurred vision?
Yes, blurred vision has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Can Oxcarbazepine be taken with antidepressants?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine can be taken with antidepressants, however, it is important to discuss with a doctor and/or pharmacist before taking any other medications with Oxcarbazepine as drug interactions may occur.
Can Oxcarbazepine cause a skin rash?
Yes, a skin rash has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause dry mouth?
Yes, dry mouth has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Can Oxcarbazepine cause insomnia?
Yes, insomnia has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Does Oxcarbazepine help with anxiety?
No, Oxcarbazepine is not approved for the treatment of anxiety.
Can Oxcarbazepine cause seizures?
No, Oxcarbazepine is used to treat seizures in both adults and children.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause fatigue?
Yes, fatigue has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.
Does Oxcarbazepine lower blood pressure?
No, Oxcarbazepine does not usually lower blood pressure.
Can Oxcarbazepine be taken with other seizure medications?
Yes, Oxcarbazepine can be taken with other seizure medications, however, it is important to discuss with a doctor and/or pharmacist before taking any other medications with Oxcarbazepine as drug interactions may occur.
Is Oxcarbazepine used to treat bipolar disorder?
No, Oxcarbazepine is not approved for the treatment of bipolar disorder.
Can Oxcarbazepine be taken for pain relief?
No, Oxcarbazepine is not approved for the treatment of pain.
Does Oxcarbazepine cause depression?
Yes, depression has been reported as a side effect of Oxcarbazepine, however, it may vary from patient to patient.