Generic name: oxcarbazepine [ ox-kar-BAY-zeh-peen ]
Brand names: Oxtellar XR, Trileptal
Dosage forms: oral suspension (300 mg/5 mL), oral tablet (150 mg; 300 mg; 600 mg), oral tablet, extended-release (150 mg; 300 mg; 600 mg)
Drug class: Dibenzazepine anticonvulsants
Route of administration: Oral
Available Dose:
- Tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg, 600 mg
- Oral suspension: 300 mg/5 mL
Mechanism of action: Oxcarbazepine stabilizes hyper-excited neural membranes, inhibits repetitive neuronal firing, and reduces synaptic impulse propagation.
Drug usage cases: Oxcarbazepine is used for the treatment of partial seizures in adults and children.
Drug contraindications: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to oxcarbazepine or any of its components.
Side effects: Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Rarely, it may cause severe skin reactions or allergic reactions.
Warnings: Caution is advised in patients with renal impairment and those with a history of drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome.
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Oxcarbazepine is categorized as a pregnancy category C drug. It should only be used during pregnancy if needed. Oxcarbazepine is excreted in human milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding women.
