What condition does Ethotoin treat?
Ethotoin is known as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug used to prevent and control tonic-clonic and complex partial seizures. This medicine is also an adjunct to control combined absence and tonic-clonic seizures. This medication may be used alone or along with other medicines to treat the condition.
This belongs to the class of medications known as hydantoins. It exerts an antiepileptic effect without causing a general central nervous system depression. This comes as a tablet for oral use. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this medication.
How does Ethotoin work?
Ethotoin is possibly very similar to that of phenytoin. The last medication seems to be calm rather than to raise the normal seizure threshold. It prevents the spread of seizure activity rather than stopping the primary focus of seizure discharges. This medication inhibits nerve impulses in the motor cortex. It is by lowering the sodium ion influx and limiting tetanic stimulation.
What is the recommended dosage for Ethotoin?
The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response. Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Swallow it as a whole. Do not break or chew it. Take the drug exactly as it is prescribed. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
Ethotoin is usually taken 4 to 6 times a day. You should take it with food or with milk to prevent an upset stomach. Take it at the same time each day. Do not skip doses and do not suddenly stop taking this without consulting your doctor.
Space your dosages evenly throughout the day. It is important to take it on time to keep a steady level of medicine in your blood. If you are already taking another anti-seizure medication, follow the directions of your doctor carefully for stopping or continuing the old drug and starting Ethotoin.
What are the side effects of Ethotoin?
- Nausea
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Numbness or tingling
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Swelling in your gums
- Lack of balance or coordination
If these side effects persist or worsen, call your doctor right away.
What are the precautions in taking Ethotoin?
- Inform your doctor if you are allergic to this drug before taking it. This may have an inactive ingredient that may cause an allergic reaction.
- Call for medical help right away if there are signs of an allergic reaction.
- This medication may not be recommended for pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first. Discuss the risks and benefits.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Do not stop taking this medicine or any anti-seizure prescription without consulting your doctor. Your seizures might worsen when the medication is suddenly stopped. Your dosage may need to be slowly reduced.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication especially loss of coordination, dizziness, or fainting. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.
