Zonegran Alternatives

While the medication is often effective at controlling seizures and well tolerated, Zonegran alternatives may be considered if it is not working as well as intended or if bothersome side effects occur. These alternatives can include a special diet, surgery, and other seizure medications. Medications that are considered Zonegran alternatives include gabapentin, carbamazepine, and valproic acid.

 

An Overview of Zonegran Alternatives

Zonegran® (zonisamide) is a prescription medication used to treat partial seizures in people with epilepsy. Seizures are divided into two major categories -- generalized seizures and partial seizures (also known as focal seizures). Partial seizures occur in only one part of the brain, while generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain. As many as 60 percent of people with epilepsy have partial seizures. Zonegran is approved only to be used in combination with other seizure medications.
 
Often, Zonegran is effective at controlling seizures, and people usually tolerate this epilepsy medication well. However, as with all medicines, bothersome or dangerous Zonegran side effects may occur. Also, in some situations, the medication may not adequately control seizures. Fortunately, several alternatives to Zonegran are available for controlling seizures, including:
 
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;