Oxcarbazepine

Generic Details

Generic Name

Oxcarbazepine

Other Names

Trileptal

Drug Class

Anticonvulsant

Chemical Formula

C15H12N2O2

Molecular Weight

252.27 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

Blocks voltage-sensitive sodium channels

Indications

Partial seizures
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures

Common Dosage Forms

Tablet
Suspension

Typical Dosage

600-2400 mg per day in divided doses

Pediatric Dosage

Based on weight and age; usually starting with lower doses

Geriatric Dosage

Dosage adjustments may be required due to decreased renal function

Side Effects

Dizziness
Headache
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Confusion

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to oxcarbazepine or its components

Pregnancy Category

C

Lactation Safety

Use with caution; excreted in breast milk

Drug Interactions

CYP2C19 inducers/inhibitors
Other antiepileptic drugs
Oral contraceptives

Overdose Symptoms

Drowsiness
Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Blurred vision

Antidote for Overdose

Symptomatic treatment

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration
Distribution: Highly protein-bound, mainly to albumin
Metabolism: Metabolized to its active metabolite (licarbazepine) in the liver
Excretion: Primarily in the urine

Precautions

Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions
Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function tests

Warnings

Risk of serious dermatological reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Others

May cause hyponatremia, especially in elderly patients