Oxcarbazepine

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 12, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) 


Is oxcarbazepine a sleeping pill?

Oxcarbazepine is not a sleeping pill. However, sleepiness and dizziness are known side effects of this medication. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol can make these side effects worse.



How long does it take for oxcarbazepine to kick in?

The clinical response to oxcarbazepine can vary from person to person. Generally speaking, it takes at least 1-2 weeks of taking this seizure medicine as prescribed before you will notice an improvement in your seizures.



How long does it take to get off oxcarbazepine?

It can take several weeks or even months to get off oxcarbazepine. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly as it could lead to worsening seizure control. Your doctor will tell you how to lower the dose slowly.



Does oxcarbazepine make you gain weight?

Antiepileptic medications including oxcarbazepine can lead to weight gain. However, only a small percentage of people who take oxcarbazepine gain weight. Talk to your doctor if this is a concern for you. Do not stop taking oxcarbazepine without your doctor’s approval.



Is oxcarbazepine safe during pregnancy and lactation?

The safety of oxcarbazepine during pregnancy is unclear as it hasn't been well-studied. This medication is secreted in low amounts in breast milk. However, research suggests it's not likely to cause any harm to breastfed infants. You should discuss seizure control and dosage of antiepileptic drugs with your healthcare providers if you are pregnant or breast feeding. The plasma drug levels of oxcarbazepine can gradually fall due to physiologic changes during pregnancy and rise after childbirth. Your doctor will monitor you carefully during this time. Your provider may also sign you up with a pregnancy registry that tracks side effects of antiepileptic medicines in pregnant women. 



What is the price of oxcarbazepine without insurance?

Without insurance, oxcarbazepine can be as high as $164.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $20.33 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of oxcarbazepine with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on oxcarbazepine—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for oxcarbazepine. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.