What is the most important information I should know about methsuximide?
Do not stop taking methsuximide even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking
methsuximide to prevent seizures from recurring.
Do not change the brand, generic formulation, or dosage of this medication without first talking
to your doctor.
Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in
the case of an emergency.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.
Methsuximide may cause
dizziness or
drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid
these activities.
Do not
drink alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can cause deep
sedation or
sleepiness when taken with methsuximide.
What is methsuximide?
Methsuximide is an anticonvulsant. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause
seizures.
Methsuximide is used to treat absence or "petit mal" seizures that have not responded to other
antiseizure medicines.
Methsuximide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking methsuximide?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take methsuximide, or you may require a lower
dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have either of the conditions listed above.
Methsuximide 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 methsuximide will harm an unborn baby.
Do not
take methsuximide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether methsuximide passes into breast milk. Do not
take methsuximide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take methsuximide?
Take methsuximide 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 methsuximide with a full glass of water.
Take methsuximide with food to lessen stomach upset.
Do not change the brand name, generic formulation, or dosage of methsuximide that you are
taking without first talking to your doctor.
Do not stop taking methsuximide even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking
methsuximide to prevent seizures from recurring.
It is important to take methsuximide regularly to get the most benefit.
Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment
with methsuximide to monitor progress and side effects.
Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in
the case of an emergency.
Do not take any capsule that is discolored.
Store methsuximide at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not expose the
medication to excessive temperatures (such as a hot car, etc.). Excessive temperatures may cause the
medication to lose its potency.
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 methsuximide 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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