Zonisamide

Dosage Forms Available

• Zonisamide can be taken orally (capsule, tablet and suspension).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults.

Contraindications

• Zonisamide is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to sulfonamides. Patients with severe liver impairment or Addison's disease should not take this medication.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Zonisamide may interact with other medications that induce hepatic CYP3A4 enzymes (such as carbamazepine and phenytoin), and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like acetazolamide and topiramate).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Zonisamide can cause severe symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, mental/mood changes, sluggishness, and loss of consciousness. If you experience these symptoms after taking this medicine, consult your doctor immediately.

• If you miss a dose of Zonisamide, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For side effects like drowsiness or dizziness, avoid activities that require alertness until these symptoms subside.

• For nausea or stomach upset, try taking this medication with food.

• If dry mouth occurs, increase your fluid intake or chew sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Zonisamide may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Therefore, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are sure how this medication affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is advised to consult your doctor before using Zonisamide during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with renal impairment should exercise caution when taking Zonisamide as it is primarily excreted by the kidneys.

• Elderly patients or those with a history of kidney stones, osteoporosis, or mental illness also need to be cautious when taking this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Avoiding triggers (such as flashing lights, lack of sleep, and stress) that might prompt a seizure.

• Keeping yourself hydrated can help prevent some of the side effects of Zonisamide such as kidney stones.