Uses of Ethosuximide

Ethosuximide is used in the treatment of epilepsy. 

Therapeutic Category

Ethosuximide: Anti-epileptics   

How Ethosuximide works

Ethosuximide works by acting on the central nervous system and blocks the abnormal activity of nerve cells and prevents the unusual build-up of electrical signals in the brain.

Common side effects of Ethosuximide

• Decreased appetite
• Headache
• Unsteadiness
• Difficulty in controlling movements
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Stomach ache, cramps
• Vomiting
• Skin rash including measles-like reactions 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• In case of accidental overdose or poisoning
• Red patches on the body, the patches are target-like circular, often with central blisters, skin peeling, ulcers in mouth, throat, nose, genitals and eyes (stevens-johnson syndrome)
• Widespread rash, raised body temperature and enlarged lymph nodes (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms)
• Pain and inflammation of the joints with fever and rash (systemic lupus erythematosus)
• Bruising or bleeding more easily, fever, paleness or severe sore throat, mouth ulcers, fatigue, repeated infections
• Increase in the number of fits (tonic-clonic seizures)

Health Tips for Ethosuximide

• Do not drive or use machines while taking Ethosuximide as it can cause drowsiness
• Ethosuximide should be taken with caution in pregnant women unless considered clearly necessary. Consult your doctor before taking it
• Ethosuximide is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor before taking it