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methsuximide - oral, Celontin

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GENERIC NAME: METHSUXIMIDE - ORAL (meth-SUX-eh-mide)

BRAND NAME(S): Celontin

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used alone or with other medications to prevent and control a certain type of seizure (absence or petit mal seizure). It works by controlling the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that occurs during a seizure.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.It is very important to follow your doctor's dosing instructions exactly. Your doctor will start you on a low dose and slowly increase your dose. It may take several weeks or months to reach the best dose for you and to get the full benefit from this medication. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, stomach/abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, headache, or loss of coordination may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.A small number of people who take anticonvulsants for any condition (such as seizure, bipolar disorder, pain) may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Tell your doctor immediately if you or your family/caregiver notice any unusual/sudden changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior including signs of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming yourself.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), aching swollen joints, rash on nose and cheeks, severe tiredness, easy bruising/bleeding, rapid breathing.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.