Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurring, brief changes in how the brain's electrical system works. These changes in brain activity can lead to a
seizure (see Epilepsy Symptoms). It is not known exactly how Epitol works to prevent partial
seizures in people with epilepsy. It may work by blocking sodium channels in the brain. By blocking sodium channels, Epitol may decrease the activity of nerve cells, preventing them from firing abnormally. Epitol may also prevent the abnormal brain signals from spreading to other parts of the brain.
It is thought that Epitol works to treat trigeminal neuralgia by blocking the nerve signals that cause pain and other unpleasant sensations.
When and How to Take Epitol
Some general considerations for when and how to take Epitol include:
- Epitol comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth two to four times daily.
- Epitol can be taken with or without food. If Epitol upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Epitol should be taken at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Epitol will not work if you stop taking it.
- Do not stop taking Epitol without first discussing it with your healthcare provider (see Carbamazepine Withdrawal).
Dosing Information for Epitol
The dose of Epitol that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age and weight
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your Epitol dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
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