Trileptal (Oxcarbazepine) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) Indications

Trileptal, generic name oxcarbazepine, is an anticonvulsant medication prescribed to treat partial seizures in epileptic adults and children 4-16 years of age. Oxcarbazepine is also used as an additional therapy in children 2 years of age and older with epilepsy.

Oxcarbazepine works primarily by stabilizing the electrical activity in the brain, which helps to prevent the occurrence of seizures.

Oxcarbazepine may be prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as bipolar disorder and neuropathic pain. However, the safety and effectiveness of oxcarbazepine’s off-label use have not been extensively studied.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) Uses and Dosage

Oxcarbazepine is taken by mouth with water and with or without food at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. The dosage depends on the patient’s age, weight, medical condition being treated, patient’s response to treatment, and other medications being taken. The prescriber begins with a low dose that is gradually increased over time until the desired therapeutic effect is achieved. Dosing instructions should be carefully followed.

Do not stop taking oxcarbazepine abruptly as this can lead to a rebound effect that can cause seizures or other serious symptoms.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) Side Effects

Common side effects of oxcarbazepine include the following:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Tremors
• Double vision
• Loss of coordination

Severe rare side effects may include:

• Low sodium blood levels
• Low platelet or white blood cell count
• Severe skin reactions (such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis)
• Hepatitis/liver problems
• Pancreatitis
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior (mostly in people with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders)

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the severe side effects.

Although allergic reactions to oxcarbazepine are not commonly reported, they can occur in some individuals. These symptoms of allergic reactions include:

• Skin rash
• Hives
• Itching
• Facial or throat swelling
• Breathing difficulties
• Sudden fever onset

Individuals who develop any of these symptoms should promptly seek medical attention.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) Cautions

Oxcarbazepine should not be used in individuals with the following conditions:

• History of bone marrow suppression or blood dyscrasias
• Porphyria
• Low blood sodium levels
• Severe liver or kidney impairments

Oxcarbazepine can interact with other medications leading to adverse effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. Some of the most significant drug interactions with oxcarbazepine include:

• CYP3A4 inducers/inhibitors
• Other antiepileptic drugs
• Orlistat
• Benzodiazepines
• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Oral contraceptives
• John’s wort

Consuming alcohol while taking oxcarbazepine can increase the risk of adverse effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Alcohol can also interfere with the effectiveness of oxcarbazepine reducing its ability to control seizures or treat other conditions.

Oxcarbazepine has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in some patients. Patients must be monitored closely for these signs and should contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience any such symptoms.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) Form and Strength

Trileptal is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Trileptal tablet
  • 150 mg
  • 300 mg
  • 600 mg
• Oxcarbazepine tablet
  • 150 mg
  • 300 mg
  • 600 mg

FAQ

Is Trileptal used as a mood stabilizer?

Trileptal is prescribed off-label as a mood stabilizer to help manage bipolar disorder.

Is Trileptal safe long term?

Trileptal can be used safely long-term for the treatment of epilepsy and other conditions when taken as prescribed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Resources

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021014s036lbl.pdf
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17984-5005/trileptal-oral/oxcarbazepine-oral/details
3. https://www.drugs.com/trileptal.html
4. https://www.rxlist.com/trileptal-drug.htm