How Does Oxcarbazepine Work?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that occurs when there are recurring, brief changes in how the brain's electrical system works. These changes in brain activity can lead to a
seizure (see Epilepsy Symptoms).
It is not known exactly how oxcarbazepine works to prevent partial
seizures in people with epilepsy. It may work by blocking sodium channels in the brain. By blocking sodium channels, oxcarbazepine may decrease the activity of nerve cells, preventing them from firing abnormally.
Several studies have shown that oxcarbazepine is effective for treating partial seizures in adults and children as young as two years old. In these studies, people taking oxcarbazepine had fewer partial seizures, compared to those not taking oxcarbazepine. Oxcarbazepine was effective when used alone or in combination with other seizure medications.
While oxcarbazepine can be effective at controlling seizures, it is not an epilepsy cure.
When and How to Take Oxcarbazepine
Following are some general considerations for when and how to take oxcarbazepine:
- Oxcarbazepine comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth twice a day.
- Oxcarbazepine can be taken with or without food. If the drug upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
- A liquid form (oxcarbazepine suspension) is available for those with difficulty swallowing tablets. Make sure to shake the medication thoroughly before each dose.
- Oxcarbazepine should be taken at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Oxcarbazepine will not work if you stop taking it.
- Do not stop taking oxcarbazepine without first discussing it with your healthcare provider (see Trileptal Withdrawal).
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