Drugs & Vitamins

Zarontin Active Ingredients: Ethosuximide Capsules Representative Names: Zarontin Available Product Images: What are ethosuximide capsules? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with ethosuximide? What side effects may I notice from taking ethosuximide? What should I watch for while taking ethosuximide? Where can I keep my medicine? What are ethosuximide capsules? (Back to top) ETHOSUXIMIDE (Zarontin®) can help with seizure (convulsion) control in those with absence (petit mal) epilepsy. Generic ethosuximide capsules are available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •blood disorders or disease •kidney disease •liver disease •an unusual or allergic reaction to ethosuximide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I take this medicine? (Back to top) Take ethosuximide capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. If ethosuximide upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with ethosuximide? (Back to top) •alcohol •bosentan •medicines for mental depression •medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances •phenobarbital •other seizure (convulsion) or epilepsy medicine •pimozide •sevelamer •some medications for the treatment of HIV infection •some medicines for fungal or yeast infections (examples: fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole) Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from taking ethosuximide? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •chest pain or tightness •fever, sore throat, swollen glands •mood changes, nervousness, or hostility •mouth ulcers •muscle aches and pain •redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth •shortness of breath, or wheezing •skin rash and itching •unusual bleeding or bruising •unusual tiredness or weakness Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •clumsiness or unsteadiness •dizziness or drowsiness •headache •loss of appetite •nausea, vomiting •stomach cramps What should I watch for while taking ethosuximide? (Back to top) Visit your prescriber or health care professional for a regular check on your progress. Do not stop taking ethosuximide suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace. Carry an identification card with information about your condition, medications, and prescriber or health care professional. You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how ethosuximide affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks. If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking ethosuximide. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:07/29/2005 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.