Primidone
Primidone Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Primidone is a brand name. Its generic name is Primidone.
Introduction
Primidone is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is used to treat some types of seizures caused by epilepsy in adults and children. Primidone is also known by its brand name Mysoline.
Uses for
Primidone is used to treat certain types of seizures caused by epilepsy or other medical conditions in adults and children. Primidone is also sometimes used to treat tremors.
Mechanism of Action
Primidone acts as an anticonvulsant by reducing the overactivity of certain nerve fibers in the brain. Primidone metabolyzes into the anticonvulsant drugs phenobarbital and phenylethylmalonamide. These drugs act by further suppressing the abnormal electrical activity of the brain.
How long does it take to work?
The effects of primidone are usually noticeable within a few days to a few weeks after starting treatment. However, it can take up to several months for a patient to fully benefit from its effects.
Absorption
Primidone is absorbed rapidly and completely after oral administration.
Route of Elimination
Primidone is eliminated through the kidneys and to a lesser extent, through the liver.
Dosage
Primidone dosage depends on the individual. It is typically taken one to three times daily with or without food. The dose can range from 250 to 500 milligrams per day, depending on the severity of the condition. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1000 milligrams per day.
Administration
Primidone is typically taken by mouth. It is recommended to take primidone with food and to take the medication exactly as prescribed. It is important not to skip or miss any doses of primidone.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of primidone include dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, headaches, and nausea. Other side effects may include gastrointestinal problems, depression, confusion, and sleep disturbances. Primidone may also cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Toxicity
If taken in large doses or in combination with other medications, primidone can cause toxicity. Signs of primidone toxicity include confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination, and inability to concentrate. If these side-effects persist, seek medical attention immediately.
Precaution
It is important to tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of stroke, liver disease, kidney disease, alcoholism, or any other medical conditions. It is also important to tell your provider if you are taking any other medications, including vitamins, herbal supplements, or over-the-counter medications.
Interaction
Primidone may interact with certain other medications and supplements, including birth control pills, anticonvulsant drugs, antacids, and St. John's Wort. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before taking primidone.
Disease Interactions
Primidone is not recommended for people with certain conditions including liver or kidney disease, alcoholism, depression, or any other conditions associated with an increased risk of seizures.
Drug Interactions
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Primidone if you are taking any other medications, including non-prescription medications, vitamins, supplements, or herbal remedies. Primidone may interact with medications such as anticonvulsants, antacids, or St. John's Wort.
Food Interactions
Primidone should not be taken with food that contains calcium, such as milk or yogurt, as this may reduce the absorption of the medication. It is best to take Primidone on an empty stomach or with a light meal.
Pregnancy Use
Primidone is known to cause harm to an unborn child. Primidone should never be used during pregnancy, unless absolutely necessary. If your healthcare provider decides that the benefits of taking Primidone outweigh the risks, you should be monitored for any signs of fetal harm.
Lactation Use
Primidone has been known to pass into breast milk. Primidone should not be used during breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary. If your healthcare provider decides that the benefits of taking Primidone outweigh the risks, you should be monitored for any signs of infant harm.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of Primidone can cause rapid heart rate, agitation, confusion, seizures, nausea, vomiting, or unconsciousness. If you suspect an overdose, contact emergency medical services or contact the Poison Control Center immediately.
Contraindication
Primidone is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity or with a history of barbiturate or phenobarbital induced porphyria.
Direction of Use
Primidone should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dose can range from 250 to 500 milligrams per day, depending on the severity of the condition. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1000 milligrams per day. Primidone should be taken one to three times daily with or without food.
Storage Conditions
Primidone should be stored at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture. It should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
Primidone is widely distributed throughout the body and distributed into breast milk. It has not been established how much of the drug is distributed in the brain.
Half Life
The elimination half-life of primidone, usually expressed as its active metabolite, phenobarbital, is approximately 80 hours in healthy adults. This half-life may be prolonged in elderly and in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
Clearance
Primidone is eliminated primarily through the kidneys and to a lesser extent through the hepatic system. The average renal clearance of Primidone is approximately 0.5-1.0 mL/min/kg in healthy adults.
Here you find in details version of Primidone
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Primidone
.1. What is Primidone?
Primidone is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of seizures in people who have epilepsy. It is also sometimes used to treat essential tremor.
2. How does Primidone work?
Primidone works by increasing the amount of certain chemical messengers in the brain which help to reduce seizure activity.
3. Who should not take Primidone?
Primidone should not be taken by people who are pregnant, who have certain liver or kidney problems, or by people who have a history of certain types of mental illness.
4. What are the possible side effects of Primidone?
The most common side effects of Primidone are drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting and headache.
5. Is Primidone addictive?
Primidone is a non-addictive anticonvulsant medication and is not associated with abuse or addiction.
6. How long does it take for Primidone to start working?
It may take several weeks for Primidone to start working and the full effect may not be seen until several months of taking the medication.
7. What other medications can interfere with Primidone?
Other seizure medications, antidepressants, antihistamines, antibiotics, and anti-anxiety medications can all interfere with the effects of Primidone.
8. Does Primidone have any interactions with alcohol?
Yes, alcohol can interfere with the effects of Primidone and can increase the risk of side effects.
9. How should Primidone be taken?
Primidone is generally taken 1-4 times per day with or without food. It is important to take it at the same time each day and to never change the dose or skip a dose without consulting a doctor.
10. How long can someone take Primidone?
Primidone can be taken for as long as it is prescribed by a doctor. It is important to check in with the doctor regularly to ensure that the medication is working properly.
11. What are the signs of an allergic reaction to Primidone?
Signs of an allergic reaction to Primidone may include hives, difficulty breathing, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat.
12. Can Primidone cause depression?
Yes, Primidone can cause depression. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any signs of depression while taking Primidone.
13. How should Primidone be stored?
Primidone should be stored at room temperature and away from heat and moisture. It should also be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
14. Is it safe to take Primidone while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No, it is not safe to take Primidone while pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
15. What should I do if I miss a dose of Primidone?
If you miss a dose of Primidone, take it as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
16. What are the common side effects of Primidone?
The most common side effects of Primidone include drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, and headache.
17. Is it safe to take Primidone with other medications?
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Primidone with other medications as some medications can interact with Primidone and cause serious side effects.
18. What should I do if I experience a side effect from Primidone?
If you experience any side effects from Primidone, it is important to contact your doctor right away. Do not stop taking Primidone without first consulting with your doctor.
19. Is Primidone safe for children?
Yes, Primidone is safe for children when used as directed by a doctor. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when giving Primidone to children.
20. Is Primidone a controlled substance?
Primidone is not a controlled substance and is not associated with abuse or addiction.
21. What are the long-term effects of Primidone?
Potential long-term effects of Primidone include weight gain, increased hair growth, and anemia. Long-term effects of Primidone can vary from person to person.
22. Is there an alternative to Primidone?
Yes, there are several alternatives to Primidone including gabapentin, lamotrigine, topiramate, and oxcarbazepine.
23. Can Primidone cause birth defects?
Yes, some studies have shown that long-term use of Primidone during pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects in the baby.
24. How often should I see my doctor while taking Primidone?
It is important to keep all of your doctor’s appointments while taking Primidone and to make sure your doctor is aware of any changes in your condition.
25. Can Primidone be stopped without tapering off?
No, it is not recommended to stop taking Primidone without tapering off. Stopping Primidone abruptly can cause seizures or other serious side effects.
26. What happens if I overdose on Primidone?
An overdose of Primidone can be dangerous and can cause confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, muscle twitching, seizures, and other symptoms. If you think you may have overdosed, call your doctor or emergency services right away.
27. What should I avoid while taking Primidone?
You should avoid operating heavy machinery or driving while taking Primidone, as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness. You should also avoid alcohol and avoid taking any medication that may interact with Primidone without consulting a doctor.
28. Should I take Primidone with food?
Yes, it is usually recommended to take Primidone with food to reduce the risk of nausea. It is important to take Primidone at the same time every day to maintain an even level of the medication in your body.
29. Is Primidone safe for seniors?
Yes, Primidone is generally safe for seniors when taken as directed by a doctor. However, the elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects of Primidone and may require a lower dose.
30. Can Primidone cause memory loss?
Yes, in rare cases Primidone has been associated with memory loss. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any changes in your memory while taking Primidone.