Zarontin

 
Generic Name: ethosuximide

Brands: Zarontin

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

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

· Do not change the brand, generic formulation, or dosage of this medication without first talking to your doctor.

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

 

What is Zarontin?

· Zarontin is a drug used to control seizures. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures.

· Zarontin is used to treat absence or "petit mal" seizures.

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

 

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

· Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have     ·kidney disease; or     ·liver disease.

· You may not be able to take Zarontin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have either of the conditions listed above.

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

· It is not known whether Zarontin passes into breast milk. Do not take Zarontin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I take Zarontin?

· Take Zarontin 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 Zarontin with a full glass of water.

· Take Zarontin with food to lessen stomach upset.

· Measure the liquid form of Zarontin with a special dose-measuring spoon or a cup not with a regular tablespoon to ensure that you measure the correct amount. If you do not have a dose measuring spoon, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

· Do not change the brand name, generic formulation, or dose of Zarontin that you are taking without first talking to your doctor.

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

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

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

· Store Zarontin 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 Zarontin overdose include confusion, slurred speech, stumbling or staggering walk, imbalance, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, tremor, low blood pressure, and slow breathing.

 

What should I avoid while taking Zarontin?

· Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can cause deep sedation or sleepiness. It may also increase your risk of having seizures.

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zarontin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

 

What are the possible side effects of Zarontin?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Zarontin and seek emergency medical attention:     ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);     ·hallucinations or agitation;     ·slurred speech or staggering walk;     ·a rash;     ·changes in vision;     ·easy bruising or bleeding; or     ·swollen or tender gums.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zarontin and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, or diarrhea;     ·mild dizziness or drowsiness;     ·tender or swollen glands;     ·headache;     ·muscle twitches;     ·increased facial hair;     ·swelling of the breasts; or     ·insomnia.

· 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 Zarontin?

· Zarontin may increase the amount of other antiseizure medications in the blood. Such medications include phenytoin (Dilantin), mephenytoin (Mesantoin), and ethotoin (Peganone). These drugs must be monitored if they are used with Zarontin to prevent the occurrence of dangerous side effects.

· Zarontin may decrease the level of primidone (Mysoline) in the blood, which could lead to a loss of seizure control.

· Valproic acid (Depakote, Depakene) may increase or decrease Zarontin levels and must be used with caution.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zarontin. 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 Zarontin written for health professionals that you may read.

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