Ethosuximide (
Zarontin®) is a prescription medication used to treat absence
seizures, a specific type of epileptic
seizure. Absence seizures are also known as petit mal seizures.
Currently, ethosuximide is made by Pfizer.
How Does Ethosuximide Work?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder caused by recurring, brief changes in the brain's electrical system. These changes in brain activity can lead to a seizure
(see Epilepsy Symptoms). It is not known exactly how ethosuximide works to treat absence seizures in people with epilepsy. It may work by affecting certain calcium channels in the brain.
When and How to Take Ethosuximide
Some general considerations for when and how to take ethosuximide include the following:
- Ethosuximide comes in capsule form and is taken by mouth once or twice daily. Ethosuximide is also available in a syrup form.
- Ethosuximide can be taken with or without food. If ethosuximide bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Ethosuximide should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Ethosuximide will not work if you stop taking it.
- Do not stop taking ethosuximide without first discussing it with your healthcare provider (see Zarontin Withdrawal).