Zonegran Uses

Zonegran uses are primarily concerned with treating epilepsy in people age 16 and over who experience a certain type of seizure called partial seizures or focal seizures. The drug is not approved for use by children younger than this. It is believed to work by blocking sodium channels in the brain. "Off-label" Zonegran uses include the treatment of other types of seizures.

Zonegran Drug Information

An Introduction to Zonegran Uses

Zonegran^® (zonisamide) is a prescription medication used for epilepsy. In particular, Zonegran is approved for treating epilepsy in people who experience a certain type of seizure called a partial seizure or focal seizure. It is approved to be used along with other seizure medications, but not to be used alone.

Zonegran Uses for Epilepsy and Partial Seizures

Epilepsy is a brain condition that occurs when there are sudden, brief changes in the electrical system of the brain. These changes in brain activity can lead to seizures (see Epilepsy Symptoms). Depending on which part of the brain is involved, seizures may affect a person's consciousness, body movements, emotions, or senses.

In over half of all cases, the cause of epilepsy is not known. When the cause is known, it may be one of the following:

Other medical conditions, such as a stroke or Alzheimer's disease
Head trauma
Brain tumor or brain infection, such as meningitis
Alcohol or drug abuse
Genetics (see Genes and Epilepsy).

There are over 30 different types of seizures a person with epilepsy may experience. These seizures are generally classified into two main categories -- partial seizures (also known as focal seizures) and generalized seizures.

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