Examples
| Brand Name | Chemical Name |
| Neurontin | gabapentin |
| Lamictal | lamotrigine |
| Trileptal | oxcarbazepine |
| Topamax | topiramate |
| Zonegran | zonisamide |
How Well It Works
Anticonvulsants successfully control or prevent seizures in most people with cerebral palsy.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of anticonvulsants include:
- Drowsiness.
- Restlessness and irritability.
- Confusion and dizziness.
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.
- Uncontrollable eye movements (nystagmus).
- Gum disease (gingivitis).
- Itching, fever, and a measles-like rash (sensitivity reaction).
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
- Some anticonvulsants make birth control pills (oral contraceptives) less effective. Talk with your health professional about other methods of birth control while taking these medications.
- Many anticonvulsants increase the sedating effects of alcohol and medications such as antihistamines that often are used to treat colds, flu, and allergies.
- Some anticonvulsants make people more prone to gum disease (gingivitis).
Women taking anticonvulsants need to talk with their health professionals if they are considering becoming pregnant. Anticonvulsants may harm a fetus.
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Credits
| Author | Sabra L. Katz-Wise |
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics |
| Last Updated | November 20, 2006 |
Ralph Poore
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