Why is Trileptal prescribed?

Trileptal helps reduce the frequency of partial epileptic seizures, a form of epilepsy in which neural disturbances are limited to a specific region of the brain and the victim remains conscious throughout the attack. Trileptal may be prescribed by itself to treat the problem in adults. It can also be used in combination with other seizure medications in adults and in children as young as four years old.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Although it's not known for sure, there is good reason to believe that Trileptal can cause birth defects. If you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Trileptal should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the risk.

Trileptal appears in breast milk and could cause serious side effects in a nursing infant. Check with your doctor. You'll probably need to make a choice between breast feeding and continuing your Trileptal therapy.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Trileptal taken alone

The usual starting dose is 300 milligrams twice daily. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose to 600 milligrams twice daily. In people with kidney disorders, the starting dose is 150 milligrams twice daily.

When changing from another antiepileptic medication to Trileptal

The usual starting dose is 300 milligrams twice daily. Your doctor will gradually increase the dose over a period of 2 to 4 weeks, while reducing the other medication over a period of 3 to 6 weeks. The final dosage of Trileptal is typically 1,200 milligrams twice daily.

Trileptal combined with another antiepileptic medication

The usual starting dose is 300 milligrams twice daily. Your doctor may increase the dose to 600 milligrams twice daily.

CHILDREN 4 TO 16 YEARS OLD

For children the dosage of Trileptal is based on body weight.

Trileptal taken alone

Your child's doctor will gradually increase the dose every 3 days until the most effective dose is reached. The usual dose ranges from 300 to 1,050 milligrams taken twice daily.

When changing from another antiepileptic medication to Trileptal

Your child's doctor will gradually increase the dose of Trileptal while reducing the other medication over a period of 3 to 6 weeks. The doctor will increase the dose of Trileptal weekly until the most effective dose is reached. The usual dose ranges from 300 to 1,050 milligrams taken twice daily.

Trileptal combined with another antiepileptic medication

After a 2-week buildup, the dosage typically ranges from 450 to 900 milligrams taken twice daily.

Overdosage

There is little information on Trileptal overdose. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.

How should you take Trileptal?

Take Trileptal exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping Trileptal suddenly could cause an increase in the frequency of your seizures. Trileptal may be taken with or without food.

Trileptal is available in tablets and an oral suspension, which can be used interchangeably. To administer a dose of the oral suspension, proceed as follows:

1. Push the plunger to empty the syringe. The medicine can be dropped directly into the mouth or into a small glass of water. If using water, stir the medicine, then drink the entire glass.
2. Turn the bottle upright and twist the syringe free from the plastic adapter.
3. Slowly pull the plunger out until the top edge of the black ring is level with the marker for the prescribed dose.
4. Slowly pull the plunger out until a small amount of medicine enters the syringe. Push the plunger back in far enough to force out any large air bubbles trapped in the syringe.
5. With the syringe in place, turn the bottle upside down.
6. With the bottle upright, push the syringe firmly into the plastic adapter on the neck of the bottle.
7. Push the plunger all the way down in the dosing syringe provided with the bottle.
8. Shake the bottle well and remove the cap.
9. Rinse the syringe with warm water and allow it to dry. Replace the cap on the bottle.