Zonisamide, marketed under several brand names including Zonegran, is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and a sulfonamide anticonvulsant. It is used as an adjunctive treatment for partial seizures in adults with epilepsy.
Zonisamide Uses:
Zonisamide is used in combination with other medications to prevent and control seizures (epilepsy). It works by inhibiting certain processes in the brain to reduce the occurrence of seizures.
How to Take Zonisamide:
Take zonisamide orally as prescribed by your doctor, typically 1 to 2 times per day, with or without food.
Drink plenty of liquids to avoid kidney stones unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will start on a low dose and gradually increase it.
To get the most benefit, take it regularly at the same times each day.
Do not discontinue this medication abruptly; consult your doctor to taper off gradually if needed.
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Inform your doctor if you are allergic to zonisamide or have any other allergies.
Provide your medical history, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease (such as kidney stones), lung/breathing problems, long-term diarrhea, metabolic imbalance (metabolic acidosis), a special diet (ketogenic diet), or mental/emotional
problems (such as depression, psychosis).
This medication may reduce sweating, increasing the risk of heatstroke. Avoid activities that may cause overheating, stay hydrated, and dress lightly in hot weather.
Side effects like dizziness and lack of coordination may be more severe in older adults and children.
Zonisamide should not be used during pregnancy unless directed by a doctor, as it can harm an unborn child. However, untreated seizures can also pose risks, so do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
The medication is excreted in breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions:
Products such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide) and orlistat may interact with zonisamide.
Other medications that cause drowsiness (e.g., alcohol, antihistamines, sleep or anxiety medications) may also interact.
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid adverse interactions.
Overdose:
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention if serious symptoms occur, such as passing out or trouble breathing.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Storage:
Keep zonisamide away from heat, air, and light to avoid damaging the medication.
Store at room temperature and out of reach of children.
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Zonisamide is used in conjunction with other medications to treat certain types of seizures. It belongs to the anticonvulsant medication class.
2. How quickly does zonisamide work?
Zonisamide has shown efficacy in treating bipolar disorder, impacting both manic and depressive phases. It also has positive effects on weight and metabolic parameters.
3. Does zonisamide make you sleepy?
Yes, some common side effects of zonisamide include drowsiness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and dizziness, which can make you sleepy.
4. Is zonisamide used for sleep?
Zonisamide is not typically used for sleep disorders. It inhibits carbonic anhydrase, which may reduce apneic events in sleep-disordered breathing and contribute to weight loss in obese patients.
5. How does zonisamide make you feel?
Some individuals may experience agitation, irritability, or other abnormal behaviors while taking zonisamide. It may also increase depressive symptoms and thoughts of suicide in some people.
6. Does zonisamide cause memory loss?
Zonisamide may impair spatial memory, particularly at higher acute doses. Emotional memory disturbances have been observed with repeated administration.
7. Is zonisamide used for migraines?
Zonisamide is considered a potentially effective medication for migraine prevention. It may be used when other medications have not been successful or in cases of chronic migraines.
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.
