Felbatol

 
Generic Name: felbamate

Brands: Felbatol

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What is the most important information I should know about Felbatol?

· Do not stop taking your medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking Felbatol to prevent seizures from recurring.

· Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.

· Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Felbatol may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable.

 

What is Felbatol?

· Felbatol is used to control seizures. The exact way that it works is unknown. However, it is believed that Felbatol alters the chemical impulses in the brain that cause seizures.

· Felbatol is usually used only after other antiepileptic medicines have failed to control seizures.

· Felbatol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Felbatol?

· Before taking Felbatol, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. Felbatol can be damaging to the liver, and you may not be able to take this medication if you have liver disease. Your doctor may want to perform blood tests during your therapy to monitor how well your liver is working.

· Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions that you have and about any medicines that you take, including over-the-counter preparations.

· It is not known whether Felbatol will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Felbatol without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· Felbatol passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Felbatol without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I take Felbatol?

· Take Felbatol exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose of Felbatol with a full glass of water.

· Felbatol can be taken with or without food.

· Shake the liquid form of Felbatol well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you measure a correct dose, measure the suspension with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

· Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.

· It is important to take Felbatol regularly to get the most benefit.

· Do not stop taking your medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking Felbatol to prevent your seizures from recurring.

· Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with Felbatol to monitor progress and side effects.

· Store Felbatol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical treatment if an overdose is suspected.

· Symptoms of a Felbatol overdose include an increased heart rate, nausea, and upset stomach.

 

What should I avoid while taking Felbatol?

· Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Felbatol may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable.

· Avoid alcohol. Alcohol may increase the risk of having a seizure while taking Felbatol.

 

What are the possible side effects of Felbatol?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Felbatol seek medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:     ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);     ·a rash;     ·worsening of seizures;     ·fever or sore throat;     ·unusual bleeding or bruising;     ·yellowing of the skin or eyes; or     ·abdominal pain.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Felbatol and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·insomnia,     ·fatigue or tiredness,     ·nausea and vomiting, or     ·dizziness.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Felbatol?

· Before taking Felbatol, talk to your doctor if you are taking other medicines to control seizures. Adjustments in dosage may be necessary if certain seizure medicines are taken together.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Felbatol or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Felbatol written for health professionals that you may read.

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