ZARONTIN

Who is Zarontin for ?

Zarontin is used to treat a type of seizure called absence (petit mal). Zarontin acts on the brain and nervous system in the treatment of epilepsy. Zarontin is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

When should I be careful taking Zarontin ?

Before taking Zarontin,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Ethosuximide or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other seizure medications, doxycycline (Vibramycin), Isoniazid (INH), medications for colds or allergies such as chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), medications for depression such as amitriptyline (Elavil), oral contraceptives, and vitamins. Zarontin affects the action of other medications, and many medications can affect the action of Zarontin. Tell your doctor and pharmacist everything you are taking.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease or a blood disorder.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Zarontin, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking Zarontin.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
• plan to protect your eyes in the sun. Zarontin may make your eyes more sensitive to light. Wear dark glasses in bright light.

Zarontin Side Effects

Although side effects from Zarontin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• drowsiness
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• constipation
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• loss of taste and appetite
• weight loss
• irritability
• mental confusion
• depression
• insomnia
• nervousness
• headache

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• difficulty coordinating movements
• joint pain
• red, itchy skin rash
• easy bruising
• tiny purple-colored skin spots
• bloody nose
• unusual bleeding
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• dark urine
• fever
• sore throat