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Oxcarbazepine

Information about Oxcarbazepine

Oxcarbazepine Uses

Oxcarbazepine is used in the treatment of Epilepsy/Seizures.

How Oxcarbazepine works

Oxcarbazepine is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.

Common side effects of Oxcarbazepine

Headache, Nausea1a, Vomiting, Double vision, Fatigue, Dizziness, Impaired coordination, Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), Tremor, Abnormal vision, Altered walking, Sleepiness

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Written By

Dr. Swati Mishra

BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Khushbu Goel

DM, MD

Last updated

08 Jun 2020 | 06:14 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Oxcarbazepine

Expert advice for Oxcarbazepine

Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures.
Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you.
Some healthy tips to prevent seizures:
- Practice yoga every day.
- Get enough sleep at nighttime.
- Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/laptop.
- Take your medication on time.
It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
It may increase the risk of low sodium levels in the blood. Inform your doctor if you develop difficulty concentrating, memory problems, confusion, weakness, and unsteadiness.
Talk to your doctor if you notice sudden mood changes or develop suicidal thoughts.
Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as it may increase the seizure frequency.

Frequently asked questions for Oxcarbazepine

Oxcarbazepine

Q. Does Oxcarbazepine cause hair loss?

Yes, Oxcarbazepine causes hair loss as a common side effect. However, it does not affect everyone. If there is substantial hair loss, consult your doctor.

Q. Does the use of Oxcarbazepine affect weight?

Yes, Oxcarbazepine affects weight and may cause weight gain. However, in some cases, weight loss has also been reported. Consult a dietician and follow a diet plan to maintain your weight.

Q. Does Oxcarbazepine cause memory loss?

Yes, memory loss is a common side effect of Oxcarbazepine, but it does not occur in everyone. However, if this worries you, consult your doctor.

Q. When and how should I take Oxcarbazepine?

Take Oxcarbazepine exactly as directed by your doctor. It is recommended that you take it twice every day, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Oxcarbazepine can be taken with or without food. Take your medicine at the same time each day to gain maximum benefit. It will also help you remember when to take it.

Q. Who should not take Oxcarbazepine?

You should not take Oxcarbazepine if you are allergic to Oxcarbazepine, eslicarbazepine or to any of their components. Also, pregnant women and women who take birth control pills should avoid Oxcarbazepine. Along with that, people having severe liver or kidney disease and people with a psychiatric disorder should avoid taking Oxcarbazepine.

Q. What are the advantages of Oxcarbazepine over carbamazepine?

Oxcarbazepine has fewer side effects as compared to carbamazepine. Moreover, Oxcarbazepine can be started with a clinically effective dose as against carbamazepine which may require frequent visits to the doctor before an effective dose can be decided based on the patient’s response to the treatment.

Q. How can I watch for early symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions?

You should pay attention to any changes, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviour, thoughts or feelings. Be aware of common warning signs that might be a signal for risk of suicide. Some of these include talking or thinking about hurting yourself or ending your life, withdrawing from friends and family, becoming depressed or worsening your depression. Keep your appointment with your doctor on schedule, do not miss. Stay connected with the doctor even between visits.

Q. For how long do I need to take Oxcarbazepine. Can I stop taking it on my own?

You should take your medicine for the time and duration prescribed by your doctor. Oxcarbazepine helps to control your epilepsy but does not cure it. You must take this medicine every day, even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Oxcarbazepine or lower the dose yourself. Stopping your medicine suddenly or lowering the dose may cause seizures. Consult your doctor who may reduce the dose gradually before stopping it completely.