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What is the most important information I should know about ethosuximide?
Do not stop taking this medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking ethosuximide to prevent seizures from recurring.Do not change the brand, generic formulation, or dosage of this medication without first talking to your doctor.
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can cause deep sedation or sleepiness when taken with ethosuximide. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Ethosuximide may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.
What is ethosuximide?
Ethosuximide is a drug used to control seizures. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures.
Ethosuximide is used to treat absence or "petit mal" seizures.
Ethosuximide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ethosuximide?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take ethosuximide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have either of the conditions listed above.
Ethosuximide may cause serious blood problems. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms, which may be early signs of potential blood problems: fever, sore throat, rash, sores in the mouth, easy bruising, or red or purple bruising. It is not known whether ethosuximide will be harmful to an unborn baby.How should I take ethosuximide?
Take ethosuximide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose of ethosuximide with a full glass of water. Take ethosuximide with food to lessen stomach upset.Measure the liquid form of ethosuximide with a special dose-measuring spoon or a cup not with a regular tablespoon to ensure that you measure the correct amount. If you do not have a dose measuring spoon, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
It is important to take ethosuximide regularly to get the most benefit.
Do not change the brand name, generic formulation, or dose of ethosuximide that you are taking without first talking to your doctor.
Do not stop taking this medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking ethosuximide to prevent seizures from recurring.Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in case of an emergency.
Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with ethosuximide to monitor progress and side effects.
Store ethosuximide capsules and solution at room temperature away from moisture and heat.What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical treatment if an overdose is suspected.Symptoms of a ethosuximide overdose include confusion, slurred speech, stumbling or staggering walk, imbalance, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, tremor, low blood pressure, and slow breathing.
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