Eslicarbazepine (800mg)

Eslicarbazepine (800mg) — Uses and Benefits

Eslicarbazepine is mainly used for the management of epilepsy.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of partial-onset (focal) seizures, either alone or along with other anti-epileptic medicines
• Long-term control of seizures as advised by a neurologist

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks certain sodium channels in nerve cells
• This reduces repeated, abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures
• Over time, this helps reduce the frequency and severity of seizures

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and should not be used for general body pain or headache
• It is not used for anxiety or sleep problems
• It should not be used to treat sudden, ongoing seizures (status epilepticus) as an emergency drug
• It is not a cure for epilepsy; it only helps control seizures while taken regularly

How to Use Eslicarbazepine (800mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Swallow the tablet with water; it can be taken with or without food
• Take it at the same time every day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may trigger seizures
• Do not change the dose on your own, even if you feel better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor as this can affect seizure control

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Eslicarbazepine (800mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness or fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Double or blurred vision
• Unsteadiness while walking

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Memory or concentration problems
• Skin rash
• Low sodium levels in blood

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin reaction with blisters, peeling skin, or mouth sores
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing
• Severe confusion, extreme drowsiness, or unusual behaviour
• Signs of low sodium such as severe weakness, confusion, or fainting
• Thoughts of self-harm or unusual mood changes
• Irregular heartbeat or fainting

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Eslicarbazepine (800mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to eslicarbazepine, oxcarbazepine, or carbamazepine
• Have a severe heart conduction problem (such as second or third-degree AV block) without a pacemaker
• Have severe liver disease, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver problems
• Have a history of heart rhythm problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have low sodium levels or take medicines that affect sodium
• Have a history of depression, mood changes, or suicidal thoughts
• Are taking hormonal contraceptives, as effectiveness may be reduced

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs like carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbitone
• Hormonal birth control pills
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Medicines affecting heart rhythm
• Simvastatin and certain other cholesterol-lowering drugs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It can cause dizziness or blurred vision, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Can I drink alcohol with this medicine?

Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness, so it is best avoided.

Will I need blood tests while on this medicine?

• Your doctor may periodically check sodium levels and liver function, especially during the initial months.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.