Zonegran
® (
zonisamide) is a prescription medication used to treat partial
seizures, a specific type of epileptic
seizure. Seizures are divided into two major categories: partial seizures (sometimes called focal seizures) and generalized seizures. Partial seizures occur in just one part of the brain, while generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain. Zonegran is approved to be used together with other seizure medications to control partial seizures.
Currently, Zonegran is made by Eisai, Inc.
Epilepsy is a brain disorder caused by recurring, brief changes in the brain's electrical system. These changes in brain activity can lead to a seizure
(see Epilepsy Symptoms).
It is not known exactly how Zonegran works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. It may work by blocking sodium channels in the brain, which could decrease activity of nerve cells, preventing them from firing abnormally. The medication may also affect calcium in the brain. Evidence suggests that the medication works to stop seizure activity from starting and preventing it from spreading to other parts of the brain.
Three studies have shown that Zonegran is effective for treating partial
seizures in adults whose
seizures were not adequately controlled by other seizure medications. In these studies, people added either Zonegran or a placebo ("sugar pill") to the seizure medications they were already taking. Those who added the medication decreased their rates of partial seizures by up to 40.5 percent, compared to just 9 percent in those who added the placebo to their seizure medications.
General considerations for when and how to take Zonegran include the following:
- The medication comes in capsule form and is taken by mouth once or twice daily.
- Usually, you will start with a low dosage and slowly increase up to an effective one.
- Be sure to swallow the capsules whole (do not chew, crush, or open them).
- Zonegran can be taken with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Zonegran should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Zonegran will not work if you stop taking it.
- Do not stop taking the drug without first discussing it with your healthcare provider (see Zonegran Withdrawal).
The dose of Zonegran your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medications you may be taking (especially other seizure medications)
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Zonegran. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
- Drowsiness
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Agitation or irritability
- Nausea.
(Click Zonegran Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
The following eMedTV articles describe specific side effects:
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- A history of kidney stones
- Any blood disorder
- Liver disease, including liver failure, hepatitis, or cirrhosis
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Zonegran may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Difficulty breathing.
If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Zonegran Be Stored?
Zonegran should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Store the capsules in an airtight container.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Zonegran as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. If you miss several doses, talk with your healthcare provider, as you may need to start back with a lower dosage.
While this medication is often effective and well tolerated, it does not work for everyone. It may also cause side effects. With so many different treatment options for epilepsy available, people should not settle for a treatment that is not effective enough for them or that causes bothersome side effects.
Zonegran capsules are available in three strengths:
- Zonegran 25 mg
- Zonegran 50 mg
- Zonegran 100 mg.
Is There a Generic Version of Zonegran?
Currently, both brand-name and generic versions of Zonegran are licensed for sale
(see Generic Zonegran).
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