Ethosuximide

Generally, the common side effects tend to occur at the beginning of treatment. Such side effects may include:

• Mild nausea, vomiting, indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
• If the medicine upsets the stomach, take it with food or milk.
• Drowsiness, headache, dizziness, hiccups, behavioural changes (e.g. irritability, mood change, aggressiveness)
• Be careful when giving any over-the-counter medicines to your child. Medicines for allergy or cold symptoms can add on to the drowsiness. Be sure to supervise your child if he/she is involved in activities such as cycling or swimming.
• Poor muscle coordination

Inform your doctor if any of the above side effects lasts more than a few days or become severe and bothersome.

 

Rare but serious side effects may manifest as the following symptoms. Contact your doctor as soon as possible, if you notice any of the following:

• Skin rash
• Any unusual bleeding or bruises, prolonged fever, sore throat, mouth sores
• Rash, joint swelling, swelling at neck and armpits
• Worsening or unusual behavioural changes

Inform your doctor if you notice any other unusual symptoms in your child. Always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any problems or difficulties during or after taking Ethosuximide.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you want to give any other medicines, supplements or herbal products to your child.

Ethosuximide is usually taken 1 to 2 times a day. The doctor may start your child on a low dose and then slowly increase the dose. Follow the instructions on the label carefully and ask your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure.

Do not take this medication more often than directed and do not stop unless instructed by your doctor. Stopping this medicine too rapidly can increase the risk of seizures or fits.

Do not change brands or dosage forms without informing your doctor.

Ethosuximide can be taken with or without food.

Oral liquid form

• Shake well before using. Use a medicine spoon or the graduated syringe provided to measure your medicine. Do not use household spoons as they may not be accurate

Capsule form

• Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.

Give your child the dose as soon as you remember and then continue to take it as you normally give. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and give the next dose at the usual time.

Do not double or increase the dose.          

If your child has missed more than two doses or you are not sure of what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If your child has less than two weeks supply of medication, please ensure that you have made an appointment with your child’s neurologist or made arrangements to collect more medication.

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#

If your child sees another doctor, inform him/her that your child is taking Ethosuximide before your doctor prescribes any other medications.