GENERIC NAME: ZONISAMIDE - ORAL (zoh-NISS-uh-mide)
BRAND NAME(S): Zonegran
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is used to treat seizure disorders (epilepsy). It may be used with other seizure medications as determined by your doctor.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once or twice daily; or take as directed by your doctor. It may be taken with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It may be slowly adjusted over several weeks to improve seizure control. Drink plenty of water (6 to 8 glasses a day) while taking this medication. This may decrease the rare chance of developing kidney stones. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Swallow the capsule(s) whole. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctor's approval since seizures may reoccur.
SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, weight loss, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, restlessness, trouble sleeping, or irritability may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: stomach pain, loss of coordination, mental/mood changes, slow reactions, vision changes, trouble speaking. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: rash, lower back pain, pain when urinating, bloody urine, increase in seizures. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: persistent sore throat or fever, easy bruising or bleeding, mouth sores, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, decreased sweating or a rise in body temperature (especially in children under 17 years old). A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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.
- Epilepsy Treatment - Information on Epilepsy treatment includes how epilepsy is treated, drug therapy, side effects, and surgery.
- Seizure (Epilepsy) - Learn about epilepsy, or seizure disorder. Causes include head injury, trauma, prenatal injury, poisoning, medications, stroke, heart attacks, alcoholism, infection, and more. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information is included in the information.
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