Indicated for: epilepsy
Route of administration: oral
Substance: oxcarbazepine (antiepileptic)
ATC: N03AF02 (Nervous system | Antiepileptics | Carboxamide derivatives)
Oxcarbazepine is a medication primarily used for the treatment of epilepsy, effectively controlling partial seizures with or without secondary generalization. It belongs to the class of anticonvulsants and works by stabilizing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, thereby reducing the risk of seizures.
Oxcarbazepine is indicated for both adults and children and can be used as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in epilepsy. Additionally, it may be used in some cases to treat mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, although this is not its primary indication.
Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, fatigue, blurred vision, and electrolyte imbalances, such as low sodium levels (hyponatremia). Rarely, severe allergic reactions or skin rashes may occur. It is important to take oxcarbazepine as prescribed by a healthcare provider, and discontinuation should be done gradually to avoid worsening seizures.