Oxcarbazepine: how to take it safely
Trileptal
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats epilepsy.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
When to take it
Take it twice a day, about 12 hours apart.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Missing doses. This can trigger seizures.
- Stopping suddenly. Your doctor will lower the dose slowly.
- Alcohol.
- Driving or using machines until you know how it affects you.
- Hormonal contraceptives may not work well. Use another method.
- Tell your doctor if you have had a reaction to carbamazepine.
Possible side effects
Dizziness, sleepiness, double vision, nausea, headache.
Get help if
Rash, fever, severe tiredness, confusion or low sodium signs (headache, nausea, confusion): get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.