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Felbamate |
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What is Felbamate and why is it prescribed? Felbamate is an epilepsy medication used alone or with other drugs to treat partial seizures with or without generalization. It is also used with other medications to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Felbamate is prescribed only when other medications have failed to control severe cases of epilepsy. When taking Felbamate, be alert for signs of a very rare but dangerous side effect called aplastic anemia, in which the red blood cell count declines drastically. Warning signs include weakness, fatigue, and a tendency to easily bruise or bleed. Felbamate has also been known to cause fatal cases of liver failure. Warning signs of a liver problem include dark urine, loss of appetite, stomach upset, and yellow skin or eyes. Alert the doctor immediately if you develop these symptoms. The sooner Felbamate is discontinued, the better your chances of recovery. How should you take Felbamate? Follow your doctors directions for taking Felbamate. Felbamate should not be stopped suddenly. This could increase the frequency of your seizures. If you are taking Felbamate liquid, shake well before using. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take a double dose. Felbamate should be stored in a tightly closed container, at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture. Are there any Felbamate side effects? Felbamate side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Side effects in adults taking Felbamate alone may include acne, anxiety, constipation, diarrhea, double vision, ear infection, facial swelling, fatigue, headache, inability to fall or stay asleep, indigestion, loss of appetite, menstrual irregularities, nausea, nasal inflammation, rash, upper respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, vomiting, and weight decrease. Side effects in adults taking Felbamate with other medication may include abdominal pain, abnormal stride, abnormal taste, abnormal vision, anxiety, chest pain, constipation, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, double vision, dry mouth, fatigue, fever, headache, inability to fall or stay asleep, indigestion, lack of muscle coordination, loss of appetite, muscle pain, nausea, nervousness, pins and needles, rash, sinus inflammation, sleepiness, sore throat, stupor, tremor, upper respiratory infection, and vomiting. Side effects in children taking Felbamate with other medication may include abnormal stride, abnormal thinking, abnormally small pupils, constipation, coughing, diarrhea, ear infection, fatigue, fever, headache, hiccups, inability to control urination, inability to fall or stay asleep, indigestion, lack of muscle coordination, loss of appetite, mood changes, nausea, nervousness, pain, rash, red or purple spots on skin, sleepiness, sore throat, taste changes, unstable emotions, upper respiratory infection, vomiting, and weight decrease. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Felbamate? If Felbamate is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Felbamate with other epilepsy drugs, such as Dilantin, Depakene, Depakote, Tegretol, and phenobarbital. Are there any special warnings about Felbamate? Remember to watch for signs of aplastic anemia. If you have ever had liver problems, be sure to tell your doctor. Expect your doctor to monitor your response carefully when you start taking Felbamate and to check your liver function every 1 or 2 weeks. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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