Drug Details

OXCARBAZEPINE

Dr C P Ravikumar
 
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Dr. C P Ravi Kumar

Dr. C. P. Ravi Kumar Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Neurology, The Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Mahadevapura, Bangalore

 

What is Oxcarbazepine?

Oxcarbazepine is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants, used to reduce the frequency of seizures.

What is Oxcarbazepine used for (Indications)?

  • Bipolar disorder

  • Focal onset seizures and generalized onset seizures

  • Neuropathic pain

How is Oxcarbazepine available (Dosage forms)?

  • Tablet

  • Extended-release tablet and sustained release tablets.

  • Suspension (liquid)

How does Oxcarbazepine act (mechanism of action)?

Oxcarbazepine is a medication that helps to quieten hyperactive brain signals, thereby relaxing the brain and reducing excessive activity. This makes it useful for treating seizures, anxiety, and certain brain disorders where the brain becomes too active or unstable.
Think of it like a “brake” for the brain—when the brain is going too fast or getting out of control, Oxcarbazepine helps slow things down and restore balance.

How much time does Oxcarbazepine take to act?

Oxcarbazepine dose is built slowly in children, hence its effect can take sometime to be evident and depends on age and dosage.

Why is Oxcarbazepine important for you/your child’s treatment?

Oxcarbazepine is good anti -seizure medicine, it helps to stop or reduce seizure depending on the underlying cause, hence taking it regularly is important. It controls seizures but doesn’t cure epilepsy and works only while you keep taking it. So never stop giving Oxcarbazepine all of a sudden, it may result in having more seizures.

What is the ideal time to take Oxcarbazepine?

  • Twice a day; morning and evening. Ideally, 10-12 hours apart.

  • You can adjust the time slot according to your schedule.

  • But make sure to give at same time every day to make a routine.

When should Oxcarbazepine be take, before or after food?

Oxcarbazepine can be taken either before or after food, depending on what works best for you. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for the timing and dosage, as they may have specific recommendations based on your situation.

How should I give the medicine?

  • Oral solution/ Liquid syrup: Shake the suspension well right before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use the provided syringe to measure the correct dose of the suspension from the bottle. You may take the suspension directly from the syringe or mix it with a small amount of water before swallowing.

  • Extended-release tablets and sustained release tablets:  Swallow the whole with water or another liquid; avoid splitting, chewing, or crushing them.

What can be done if I forgot to give the dose?

The missed dose of medication should be taken as soon as remembered, skip if the next scheduled dose is approaching.

Never give a Double dose of Oxcarbazepine

If your child vomits within 30 minutes of taking the medicine, you can repeat the dose. However, if they vomit after 30 minutes, do not give another dose and wait until the next scheduled one.
 
 
 
Oxcarbazepine
 

Does this medicine carry any side effects?

Every medication carry both benefits as well as potential side effects. While most people tolerate medicines well, some may experience adverse reactions. Serious side effects are rare, but being informed helps you act quickly if they occur. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away if you notice any severe or unusual symptoms.

Side effects of Oxcarbazepine (Adverse reactions)

  • Gastrointestinal (stomach): Nausea, vomiting, Constipation, dry mouth

  • Nervous system: Dizziness, drowsiness, trouble with coordination (ataxia), Difficulty thinking clearly, tiredness, tingling or numbness, speech problems, tremors (shaking), twitching, dizziness

  • Heart: Increased blood pressure or may worsen existing high blood pressure

  • Skin: Itchy skin, rash

  • Eyes: Blurred vision

Rare side effects

  • Mental health: Suicidal thoughts or tendencies
Again, not everyone will experience these side effects, but if you notice any, especially mental health changes, it’s important to reach out to your doctor.

Does Oxcarbazepine cause weight gain?

Oxcarbazepine is not typically associated with significant weight gain, but it may affect weight in some individuals due to indirect factors.

Is it okay to take other common medications while using Oxcarbazepine?

It’s important to be cautious when taking other medications alongside Oxcarbazepine, as it can interact with certain drugs. Some common medicines, including hormonal contraceptives, other anti-seizure medications, and some pain relievers or antibiotics, may be affected.

What food to avoid while taking Oxcarbazepine?

When taking Oxcarbazepine, there are no specific foods that must be strictly avoided, but there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Grapefruit(may interact with medicine).

  • High-sodium foods (can affect sodium levels).

  • Alcohol (increases side effects like dizziness).

  • Excessive caffeine (may worsen side effects).

Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregabalin is not routinely recommended in pregnancy because of possible risks to the baby.
Caution is advised when prescribing Oxcarbazepine to breastfeeding women. If a nursing mother needs Oxcarbazepine, the healthcare provider may monitor the infant for any adverse effects or suggest an alternative feeding option.

Is getting pregnant while using Oxcarbazepine dangerous?

While Oxcarbazepine can be used during pregnancy under medical guidance, your doctor might suggest adjusting your medication or dosage, or switching to a different medication, if necessary.

Can I stop taking Oxcarbazepine? (withdrawal)

The medications should not be discontinued abruptly, as it may increase the episodes of seizures and may cause side effects

Where should you store Oxcarbazepine?

  • Store Oxcarbazepine in cool place, temperature ideal between 15-30ºC (59-86ºF).
  • Store the bottle in an upright position.
  • Keep cap tightly closed. It should be stored in a dry place in a tightly closed container to protect it from direct sunlight and excessive light.

Monitoring Parameters

  • Seizure frequency

  • Sedation and Neurological Status

  • Behavioural and Psychiatric Symptoms

  • Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

  • Bone mineral density

  • Serum sodium level

  • Hypersensitivity reactions

How to cope with side effects of Oxcarbazepine?

  • Dizziness/Drowsiness: Rise slowly, rest, avoid alcohol.

  • Nausea: Take the medication along with food, stay hydrated, eat smaller meals.

  • Headaches: Stay hydrated, try mild pain relievers, rest.

  • Mood Changes: Talk to your doctor, practice stress relief techniques.

  • Low Sodium: Stay balanced with fluids, monitor symptoms.

Rash or Allergic Reactions (Rare but Serious)

In the event that a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing develops, stop taking the drug right once and get medical help.

General Tips for Parents

  • Record any symptoms or changes in behaviour, appetite, or mood to share with the healthcare provider.

  • Keep your doctor informed about any negative effects. even if they seem minor. This helps with timely dose adjustments.

  • Dosing twice raises the possibility of adverse effects, and missing doses can result in recurrent seizures.

  • For older children, explain what to expect and encourage them to communicate how they’re feeling.

When to Contact the Doctor?

If side effects worsen or become severe (e.g., excessive sedation, persistent vomiting, or behavioural changes).
If any signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing).
If seizures increase or new symptoms appear.

Summary

Oxcarbazepine is a medicine used to treat epilepsy, mainly partial seizures, in adults and children. It helps control brain signals. Compared to a similar drug (Carbamazepine), it usually has fewer side effects. Common side effects are giddiness, headache, and nausea. It may sometimes lower sodium in the blood, so regular tests are needed. The medicine is taken by mouth, and the dose is set as per each person’s need. Since it can interact with other medicines, always tell the doctor what else you are taking.
 
Let us know if this information was useful!
 
Author:
  1. Dr. Likitha B S, Pharm. D, Clinical Pharmacologist, Aster Hospitals, Bengaluru
  2. Dr Praveen Kumar, B. Pharm, Pharm D(PB), Lead Clinical Pharmacologist, REGIONAL HEAD KIMS Hospitals, Bengaluru
  3. Dr. C. P. Ravi Kumar Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Neurology KIMS HOSPITALS BENGALURU
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