methsuximide

What is the most important information I should know about methsuximide?

Do not stop using methsuximide suddenly. Stopping suddenly may cause increased seizures.

What is methsuximide?

Methsuximide is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant.

Methsuximide is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat absence seizures (also called "petit mal" seizures) in adults and children.

Methsuximide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking methsuximide?

To make sure methsuximide is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• lupus;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease; or
• a history of depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some people have thoughts about suicide when taking an anticonvulsant. Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry. This is to track the outcome of the pregnancy and to evaluate any effects of methsuximide on the baby.

How should I take methsuximide?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Methsuximide can weaken your immune system. Your blood may need to be tested often.

Use methsuximide regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, extreme drowsiness, and weak or shallow breathing.

What should I avoid while taking methsuximide?

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

What are the possible side effects of methsuximide?

Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

• fever;
• swollen glands, sore throat;
• easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth); or
• feeling very weak or tired.

• confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior, extreme fear;
• worsening seizures;
• lupus-like syndrome --joint pain or swelling with fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, chest pain, vomiting, unusual thoughts or behavior, and patchy skin color; or
• severe skin reaction --fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Common side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite;
• diarrhea, constipation;
• weight loss;
• headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
• blurred vision; or
• loss of balance or coordination.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect methsuximide?

Tell your doctor about all your current seizure medications, and any you start or stop using.

Other drugs may interact with methsuximide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about methsuximide.