Uses of Oxcarbazepine

Oxcarbazepine is used to treat epilepsy.

Therapeutic Category

Oxcarbazepine: Anticonvulsants or Antiepileptics

How Oxcarbazepine works

Oxcarbazepine works by suppressing high frequency repeated neuronal activity via binding to sodium channels. Oxcarbazepine also suppresses the release of glutamate which is a neurotransmitter (chemical messenger), thereby minimizing the electrical activity in the brain. 

Common side effects of Oxcarbazepine

• dizziness, tiredness, drowsiness
• disturbed vision
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation
• depression, agitation
• confusion
• uncontrolled eye movements
• loss of co-ordination, shaking
• trouble in concentrating
• memory loss
• spinning sensation
• abdominal pain
• skin rash
• acne
• hair loss
• weakness
• weight gain

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience bone disorders such as osteopenia and osteoporosis (thinning of the bone) and fractures
• If you experience signs of a blood disorder such as tiredness, breathlessness while exercising, paleness, headache, chills, dizziness, fever, sore throat, mouth ulcer, unusual bleeding/bruising, nose bleeding, reddish/purplish patches, unexplained blotches
• If you get thoughts of killing or harming yourself
• If you experience serious skin rashes
• If you experience seizures more frequently

Health Tips for Oxcarbazepine

• Drink plenty of fluids or water to prevent the formation of kidney stones
• Monitor your blood sugar levels as this medicine may increase the risk of developing low blood sugar levels
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it may increase the side effects of this medicine
• Stay active and exercise regularly for your overall wellbeing while taking this medicine