Trileptal

Before taking this medicine

Do not take Trileptal if you are allergic to oxcarbazepine or any of its ingredients. If you have previously had anaphylaxis or angioedema (serious swelling) after taking oxcarbazepine, it must not be restarted. Tell your prescriber if you have: • Had an allergic reaction to carbamazepine, as you may also react to oxcarbazepine. • Low blood sodium or take medicines that lower sodium. Blood tests may be needed during treatment. • Kidney impairment, which can slow the removal of the medicine’s active metabolite. Older adults may also have higher levels because of reduced kidney function. • Depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in mood or behaviour. Oxcarbazepine can cause serious, potentially life-threatening skin reactions, including Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. People with the HLA-B*1502 genetic variant may be at increased risk. Testing may be considered before treatment for people with ancestry in populations where this variant is more common. Treatment should generally be avoided in those who test positive unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. During pregnancy, oxcarbazepine should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the unborn baby. Medicine levels may fall during pregnancy. Oxcarbazepine and its active metabolite pass into breast milk; discuss with your prescriber whether to stop breastfeeding or stop the medicine. Seek immediate medical help for swelling of the lips, eyelids or throat, or a severe allergic reaction. Report any skin reaction, suicidal thoughts, worsening depression or unusual behaviour promptly. Nausea, headache, marked tiredness, confusion or worsening seizures may indicate low sodium and need medical assessment. Oxcarbazepine may cause sleepiness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, speech problems or poor coordination. Do not stop treatment suddenly; withdrawal should be gradual under your prescriber’s guidance to reduce the risk of more frequent seizures.