Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) Tips from Pharmacists

• You can take the regular (immediate release) tablets with or without food. If you develop nausea or other gastrointestinal symptoms, taking the medicine with food might help.

• You should take oxcarbazepine extended-release tablets on an empty stomach. Swallow them whole. Do not cut, crush, or chew them.

• Shake the bottle of oral suspension well before use. Use the oral dosing syringe supplied to measure the dose. Store the oral suspension at room temperature. Discard any unused liquid medicine 7 weeks after opening a bottle.

• Oxcarbazepine can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Do not drive or perform other hazardous activities until you know how this medicine affects you. You should know that alcohol can make these side effects worse.

• Tell your doctor right away if you develop any unusual changes in mood or behavior while on this medication.

• Your doctor will start you on a low dose of oxcarbazepine and increase the dose gradually. Follow the dosage instructions carefully and take the medicine exactly as prescribed.

• Do not stop taking oxcarbazepine abruptly. This can lead to worsening seizures. Your doctor will tell you how to lower the dose slowly.