Uses of Zonisamide

Zonisamide is used in the treatment of seizures.

Therapeutic Category

Zonisamide: Antiepileptics

How Zonisamide works

Zonisamide works by supressing electrical activities of the brain by altering the synthesis, release, and degradation of certain nerve chemicals (glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine).

Common side effects of Zonisamide

• agitation, irritability, confusion, depression 
• disturbed muscle coordination, dizziness, poor memory, sleepiness, double vision 
• loss of appetite, reduced blood levels of bicarbonate
• sleeping difficulty, unusual thoughts, feeling anxious or emotional
• disturbed thoughts, loss of concentration, speech problem, abnormal skin sensation, shakiness, involuntary movement of the eyes
• kidney stones
• skin rashes, itching, allergic reactions, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, fever, hair loss
• ecchymosis (a small bruise caused due to blood leakage from broken blood vessels in the skin)
• loss of weight, nausea, indigestion, stomach pains, diarrhoea, constipation
• swelling of the feet and legs
• pneumonia, dehydration, decreased sweating (in children 6-17 years old)

When to consult your doctor

• in case of accidental overdosage
• if you experience severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips or tongue, severe skin rash) 
• if you experience signs of overheating (high body temperature, little or no sweating, rapid heartbeat and breathing, muscle cramps, confusion)
• if you experience thoughts of self-harm 
• if you experience unusual muscle breakdown (muscle pain or weakness) 
• if you experience signs of kidney stones (sudden pain in back or stomach, pain on urinating, blood in urine)
• if you experience vision problems such as eye pain or blurred vision 
• if you experience unexplained skin rash, leading to a more severe skin rash or peeling
• if you experience signs of blood disorder (swollen glands, tiredness, sore throat, fever, easy bruising)
• if you experience signs of increased blood acid levels (headache, feeling sleepy, shortness of breath, loss of appetite)

Health Tips for Zonisamide

• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Zonisamide, as it may increase the risk of dizziness and drowsiness
• Drink plenty of fluids, unless otherwise advised by your doctor, to stay hydrated while taking Zonisamide
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress, to complement the effects of Zonisamide and improve overall well-being