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Zonisamide Oral Capsule (ZONISAMIDE - ORAL)

For seizures.

Brand Name(s): Zonegran

Generic Name: Zonisamide

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Drink extra water while on this medicine. Adults should try to drink 6-8 cups (48 to 64 oz.) of water every day.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

It is very important that you follow your doctor's instructions for all blood tests.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

Avoid becoming overheated during exercise or other activities. Try to stay cool in hot weather.

Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • drowsiness or sedation

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • pain in the eye
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • fever
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • kidney stones
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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