Aptiom (Eslicarbazepine) is a prescription medication used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults and children 4 years of age and older. It can be used alone (monotherapy) or in combination with other anti-epileptic drugs (adjunctive therapy). Partial-onset seizures are a type of seizure that starts in one specific part of the brain, rather than affecting the whole brain right away. The symptoms can be different depending on which part of the brain is involved. Some people may experience unusual sensations or changes.
In some cases, these seizures can spread and become more widespread, turning into generalized seizures. Epilepsy is a brain disorder where a person has repeated seizures that happen without an apparent trigger. The active ingredient in Aptiom is Eslicarbazepine. Eslicarbazepine belongs to a class of medications known as anticonvulsants. It works by keeping specific channels in the brain (called voltage-gated sodium channels) in an "off" state, which prevents the nerves from firing too much. This action calms the overactive nerve cells in the brain, helping to control the seizures.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Aptiom from Canada, manufactured by Sunovion, in strengths of 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg tablets. It is also available from the United Kingdom, manufactured by Eisai. The generic eslicarbazepine is also available from Canada in strengths of 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg tablets.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Aptiom. The most common side effects of Aptiom may include the following:
• Blurred vision;
• Dizziness;
• Drowsiness;
• Headache;
• Nausea;
• Vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Liver problems;
• Low sodium in the blood;
• Neurological effects, such as significant dizziness, blurred vision, gait disturbances, fatigue, etc.
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Suicidal thoughts or actions
These are not all of Aptiom's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Aptiom if you are allergic to Eslicarbazepine or any ingredient in Aptiom. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a history of depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts;
• Have heart problems;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease;
• Have low sodium levels in the blood
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Aptiom and other medicines, such as phenobarbital, simvastatin, diuretics, oral contraceptives, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The safety and effectiveness of Aptiom in pregnancy have not been established. However, using anticonvulsants in pregnancy can increase the risk of congenital disabilities. Discuss the potential dangers of using this medicine when pregnant with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Eslicarbazepine is excreted in breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not use this medicine while breastfeeding.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Aptiom is a tablet. Take the drug orally, with or without food. Take this medicine once a day, as directed by your doctor. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly, as this can increase your risk of seizures. Aptiom can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and visual disturbances. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any changes in mood, behavior, or thoughts of self-harm. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Aptiom. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness. Store this drug at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep out of the reach of children.