Oxcarbazepine: Dosage, Side Effects and Uses
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr G Ranjith, Neurology
Oxcarbazepine is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat seizures, particularly partial-onset seizures in adults and children. It helps stabilize electrical activity in the brain and is available in tablet and suspension forms. Oxcarbazepine is often prescribed for epilepsy management and may also be used off-label for mood disorders. Common side effects include dizziness, sleepiness, and nausea.
Oxcarbazepine is an anticonvulsant medication. It reduces the nerve impulses that cause seizures and pain. To treat partial seizures, oxcarbazepine is used alone or in combination with other medications. The Trileptal brand of oxcarbazepine is taken as a single dose by adults and children over the age of four.
Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) is used to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children, either alone or in combination with other medications. Oxcarbazepine extended-release tablets are used in conjunction with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children aged 6 and up. Oxcarbazepine belongs to the anticonvulsant medication class. It helps in reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Oxcarbazepine is an anticonvulsant that works by stabilizing overactive nerve signals in the brain. It blocks sodium channels in the nervous system, which helps prevent sudden electrical activity that causes seizures. This makes it effective for treating partial-onset seizures in both adults and children.
Oxcarbazepine tablet uses include seizure control, and it may also help in mood stabilization in some cases. It doesn't interact with hormones but acts on nerve cells to reduce abnormal firing. The medication is available in different strengths such as oxcarbazepine 300 and oxcarbazepine 150 mg, depending on the required oxcarbazepine dosage.
Oxcarbazepine tablets and oxcarbazepine syrup are commonly prescribed forms. While effective, users should watch for oxcarbazepine side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or nausea. When comparing oxcarbazepine vs carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine tends to have fewer drug interactions and may be better tolerated in some patients.
The typical oxcarbazepine dosage for adults starts at 300 mg twice daily, which may be adjusted by a doctor based on response and tolerance. Children s doses are usually based on body weight and may involve oxcarbazepine syrup. Forms include oxcarbazepine tablets in strengths like oxcarbazepine 300 and oxcarbazepine 150 mg.
If you miss a dose of oxcarbazepine, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Overdosing on oxcarbazepine tablets can increase the risk of side effects and serious health issues.
If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical help right away.
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Get Second OpinionSide effects occur because Oxcarbazepine alters the activity of neurons in the brain. It can affect electrolyte levels, particularly sodium, leading to symptoms like confusion, fatigue, or seizures. The nervous system’s sensitivity to the drug can cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Rare immune responses may cause rash or allergic reactions.
While oxcarbazepine tablets are generally well-tolerated, some serious but rare side effects may occur and require immediate medical attention:
If you experience any of these oxcarbazepine side effects, contact your doctor right away.
This medication'should not be used during pregnancy. It might harm an unborn child. However, because there is the risk of untreated seizures that can harm both pregnant women and their unborn child, do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor tells you to. If you are planning a pregnancy, discuss the positive and negative consequences of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor right away. Because hormonal birth control may not be effective when combined with this medication (see also the Drug Interactions section), consult your doctor about reliable forms of birth control.
This medication is excreted in breast milk, but it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Before you begin breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.
Oxcarbazepine tablets should be avoided by people who are allergic to the drug or similar medications. Pregnant women should use it only if clearly needed, as it may affect fetal development. Consult your doctor before using oxcarbazepine syrup in young children.
Oxcarbazepine use is approved in children aged 2 years and older, usually in syrup form. Dosages vary by age and weight, such as oxcarbazepine 150 mg or oxcarbazepine 300.
Avoid alcohol while taking oxcarbazepine tablets as it may increase drowsiness and the risk of side effects. There are no major food restrictions, but take the medication consistently with or without food.
Oxcarbazepine may interact with other medications such as birth control pills, calcium channel blockers, or other seizure medications. Combining it with sedatives may enhance drowsiness.
Supplements like St. John s Wort may reduce oxcarbazepine levels. Always inform your doctor about any herbal or nutritional products you're taking.
Store oxcarbazepine tablets and oxcarbazepine syrup at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Do not freeze the syrup.
Keep the medicine tightly closed, away from children, direct sunlight, and moisture. Improper storage can reduce its effectiveness and safety.
| Oxcarbazepine | Lamotrigine |
| Oxcarbazepine is an anticonvulsant medication. It reduces the nerve impulses that cause seizures and pain. | Lamotrigine is used to treat certain types of seizures in epileptic patients. |
| Oxcarbazepine extended-release tablets are used in combination with other medications to treat seizures in adults and children aged 6 and up. | Lamotrigine comes in 3 forms: standard tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and chewable tablets. |
| Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) is used to treat certain types of seizures alone or with other drugs. | Lamotrigine tablets are also used to help delay mood episodes in bipolar disorder, such as depression and mania. |

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040-68334455Oxcarbazepine extended-release tablets (Oxtellar XR) are used in conjunction with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children aged 6 and up. Oxcarbazepine belongs to the anticonvulsant medication class.
Oxcarbazepine was observed to have a positive effect by 41% of those who reviewed it, while it had a negative effect by 32%.
Oxcarbazepine is an antiepileptic medication that prevents and controls seizures in the brain. It is used for treating partial seizures. When used "off-label" for nerve pain or as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder, oxcarbazepine may be beneficial.
Oxcarbazepine may cause sleepiness, slow reaction times, and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you are affected in this way by oxcarbazepine, do not drive or operate machinery.
Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) is an anticonvulsant that is structurally similar to carbamazepine, which is approved by the FDA for acute and mixed mania but has not been well researched for depression.
This medicine may cause memory problems, difficulty in walking, and changes in balance.
Oxcarbazepine 2400 mg/day as monotherapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of adult patients with refractory partial seizures. In 692 patients with refractory partial seizures, oxcarbazepine 600, 1200, and 2400 mg/day as adjunctive therapy significantly reduced seizure frequency compared to placebo.
Oxcarbazepine has been linked to rare cases of clinically obvious acute drug-induced liver injury, similar to carbamazepine hepatotoxicity.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.