Mysoline

Mysoline is a prescription medicine that can be used alone or in combination with other medications to treat epilepsy. Specifically, Mysoline is approved for treating grand mal and partial seizures. The medication is available in the form of a tablet that is usually taken one to three times a day. Although most people tolerate Mysoline well, there are possible side effects of the medication, including coordination problems, drowsiness, and spinning sensations (vertigo).

 

What Is Mysoline?

Mysoline® (primidone) is a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy. In particular, Mysoline is approved to treat the following types of seizures:
 
  • Grand mal seizures
  • Partial seizures
     
Mysoline can be used alone or in combination with other seizure medications.
 
(Click Mysoline Uses for more information on what the drug is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Mysoline?

Currently, Mysoline is made by Xcel Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does Mysoline Work?

In the body, Mysoline is converted into various other chemicals, including phenobarbital. Phenobarbital is a type of barbiturate and can help control seizures by acting as an anticonvulsant. Unlike Mysoline, phenobarbital is considered a controlled substance. This means that there are special rules for prescribing and dispensing phenobarbital (which do not apply to Mysoline). This is one of the main advantages of Mysoline. Some people consider Mysoline to be a barbiturate, while others do not.
 
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). Mysoline (and phenobarbital) works by decreasing the excitability of the brain cells. This helps to prevent abnormal electrical activity from starting and keeps such activity from spreading to other parts of the brain.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;