Zarontin

Common Name: ethosuximide

How does Zarontin work?

This medication is used for the management and prevention of certain types of seizures (those caused by absence [petit mal] epilepsy). It may be used at the same time as other medications that are used to control different types of seizures. It helps to control seizures by working in the central nervous system. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Zarontin?

Adults: The dose of ethosuximide varies according to the needs and age of the person using the medication and their response to treatment. Often a dose of 1 g to 1.5 g daily in divided doses controls seizures in adults. Children: The dose for children three to six years of age is 250 mg daily; for older children, it is 500 mg daily, taken in divided doses. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Zarontin come in?

Zarontin® is available as capsules and as a liquid. Capsules: Each soluble, gelatin capsule, marked "PD 237", contains ethosuximide 250 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and sorbitol. Syrup: Each 5 mL contains ethosuximide 250 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: alcohol, citric acid, FD&C Yellow No. 6, flavouring agents, glycerin, purified water, saccharin sodium, sodium benzoate, sodium citrate, sucrose, and vanillin. Alcohol: 3%. Sodium: <1 mmol (6.7 mg)/5 mL. This medication does not contain gluten, lactose, parabens, sulfite, or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Zarontin?

Ethosuximide should not be used by people allergic to ethosuximide or to any of the ingredients of the medication or to any of the medications in the family of succinimides (such as methsuximide).

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Zarontin?

Blood disorders: Blood disorders, although infrequent, may be serious and have been reported to be associated with the use of ethosuximide. You will probably have periodic blood tests when taking this medication. Lupus: Cases of systemic lupus erythematosus have been reported with the use of ethosuximide. Medical conditions: Ethosuximide should be taken with extreme caution by people with liver disease or kidney disease. Occupational hazards: Ethosuximide may impair the mental or physical abilities required for potentially dangerous activities such as driving or operating machinery. People taking this medication should determine how it affects them before undertaking such activities. Pregnancy: Women subject to major seizures should not stop using this medication during pregnancy. For women subject to minor seizures, the risk of stopping the medication prior to or during pregnancy should be weighed against the risk of birth defects. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your right away. Breast-feeding: Women who take ethosuximide should not breast-feed their infants. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established for children under three years of age.