Eslicarbazepine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Eslicarbazepine
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Click HereSummary
Eslicarbazepine is used to treat partial-onset seizures in patients with epilepsy. It helps control seizures that originate in one part of the brain.
Eslicarbazepine works by stabilizing the inactive state of sodium channels in the brain, preventing them from returning to the active state. This reduces abnormal electrical activity and helps control seizures.
For adults, the initial recommended dose is 400 mg once daily, which can be increased weekly by 400 mg to 600 mg, up to 800 mg to 1600 mg once daily. For children aged 4 to 17 years, the dose depends on body weight, starting at 200 mg to 400 mg once daily.
Common side effects include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, headache, and vomiting. Serious adverse effects can include suicidal thoughts, serious skin reactions, and low sodium levels (hyponatremia).
Eslicarbazepine has a risk of suicidal thoughts, serious skin reactions, and hyponatremia. It's not recommended for patients with hypersensitivity to Eslicarbazepine or oxcarbazepine. Patients should be monitored for mood changes, skin reactions, and sodium levels.
Indications and Purpose
How does Eslicarbazepine work?
Eslicarbazepine works by stabilizing the inactivated state of voltage-gated sodium channels in the brain, preventing them from returning to the activated state. This action reduces abnormal electrical activity and helps control seizures. It is primarily converted to its active metabolite, eslicarbazepine, which is responsible for its therapeutic effects.
How does one know if Eslicarbazepine is working?
The benefit of Eslicarbazepine is evaluated through regular follow-up appointments with your doctor, who will monitor your seizure frequency and any side effects. Your doctor may order lab tests to check your body's response to the medication. Keep a record of your seizures and any side effects to discuss with your doctor.
Is Eslicarbazepine effective?
Eslicarbazepine has been shown to be effective in treating partial-onset seizures in both monotherapy and adjunctive therapy settings. Clinical trials demonstrated significant reductions in seizure frequency compared to placebo, with a higher percentage of patients achieving a 50% reduction in seizures. These results support its use as an effective treatment for epilepsy.
What is Eslicarbazepine?
Eslicarbazepine is used to treat partial-onset seizures in patients with epilepsy. It works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, helping to control seizures. Eslicarbazepine is an anticonvulsant that stabilizes the inactivated state of sodium channels, preventing repetitive neuronal firing.
What is Eslicarbazepine used for?
Eslicarbazepine is indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients with epilepsy. It can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antiepileptic drugs to help control seizures that originate in one part of the brain.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Eslicarbazepine?
Eslicarbazepine is typically used as a long-term treatment to manage partial-onset seizures. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel well, as it helps control seizures but does not cure the condition. The duration of use will depend on individual response and medical advice.
How do I take Eslicarbazepine?
Eslicarbazepine can be taken with or without food. It is available in tablet form, which can be swallowed whole or crushed. There are no specific food restrictions while taking Eslicarbazepine, but always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
How long does it take for Eslicarbazepine to start working?
Eslicarbazepine reaches steady-state plasma concentrations after 4 to 5 days of once-daily dosing. However, the time it takes to notice a reduction in seizure frequency may vary among individuals. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments to assess its effectiveness.
How should I store Eslicarbazepine?
Store Eslicarbazepine at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), away from excess heat and moisture. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program.
What is the usual dose of Eslicarbazepine?
For adults, the initial recommended dose of Eslicarbazepine is 400 mg once daily, which can be increased weekly by 400 mg to 600 mg based on clinical response and tolerability, up to a maintenance dose of 800 mg to 1,600 mg once daily. For children aged 4 to 17 years, the dose depends on body weight, starting at 200 mg to 400 mg once daily, with adjustments based on response and tolerability.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Eslicarbazepine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Eslicarbazepine is present in human milk, but its effects on the breastfed infant are unknown. The decision to continue breastfeeding while taking Eslicarbazepine should consider the benefits of breastfeeding, the mother's need for the medication, and any potential adverse effects on the infant. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can Eslicarbazepine be taken safely while pregnant?
Eslicarbazepine should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Limited data is available on its use in pregnant women, and animal studies have shown potential risks. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception and consult their doctor if they become pregnant while taking Eslicarbazepine.
Can I take Eslicarbazepine with other prescription drugs?
Eslicarbazepine can interact with other antiepileptic drugs like carbamazepine and phenytoin, potentially requiring dose adjustments. It may also affect the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and interact with drugs metabolized by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 enzymes. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
Is Eslicarbazepine safe for the elderly?
For elderly patients, no specific dose adjustment is needed if renal function is normal. However, due to limited data on the 1,600 mg monotherapy regimen in the elderly, this dose is not recommended. Elderly patients should be monitored closely for side effects, as they may be more susceptible to dizziness, fatigue, and coordination issues.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Eslicarbazepine?
Eslicarbazepine may cause dizziness, fatigue, and coordination issues, which could affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these side effects, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Consult your doctor for personalized advice on exercising while taking Eslicarbazepine.
Who should avoid taking Eslicarbazepine?
Important warnings for Eslicarbazepine include the risk of suicidal thoughts, serious skin reactions, and hyponatremia. It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Eslicarbazepine or oxcarbazepine. Patients should be monitored for mood changes, skin reactions, and sodium levels. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any severe side effects.
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