Zonisamide is a drug that is approved for use with other medications to control partial seizures in people with epilepsy. The drug comes in the form of a capsule and is generally taken once or twice a day. Most people tolerate the drug well; however, side effects may occur. Common side effects of zonisamide include nausea, drowsiness, and headaches.
Zonisamide (
Zonegran®) is a prescription medication used to treat partial
seizures, a specific type of epileptic
seizure. Seizures are divided into two major categories -- partial seizures (sometimes called focal seizures) and generalized seizures. Partial seizures occur in just one part of the brain, while generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain. Zonisamide is approved for use with other seizure medications to control partial seizures.
Currently, zonisamide is made by Eisai, Inc.
How Does Zonisamide 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 zonisamide works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. It may work by blocking sodium channels in the brain. By blocking sodium channels, the drug may decrease activity of nerve cells, preventing them from firing abnormally. Zonisamide may also affect calcium in the brain. Evidence suggests that it works to stop seizure activity from starting and preventing it from spreading to other parts of the brain.
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