Zonisamide, marketed under several brand names including Zonegran, is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and a sulfonamide anticonvulsant. It is used as an adjunctive treatment for partial seizures in adults with epilepsy.
Zonisamide Uses:
Zonisamide is used in combination with other medications to prevent and control seizures (epilepsy). It works by inhibiting certain processes in the brain to reduce the occurrence of seizures.
How to Take Zonisamide:
Take zonisamide orally as prescribed by your doctor, typically 1 to 2 times per day, with or without food.
Drink plenty of liquids to avoid kidney stones unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will start on a low dose and gradually increase it.
To get the most benefit, take it regularly at the same times each day.
Do not discontinue this medication abruptly; consult your doctor to taper off gradually if needed.
Zonisamide Side Effects:
Common side effects include:
Headache
Nausea
Agitation
Abdominal pain
Confusion
Depression
Double vision
Trouble sleeping
Diarrhea
Flu-like symptoms
Kidney stones
Numbness and tingling
Changes in taste
Weight loss
Anxiety
Rash
Constipation
Runny or stuffy nose
Dry mouth
Tired feeling
Sore throat
Cough
Blurred vision
Precautions:
Inform your doctor if you are allergic to zonisamide or have any other allergies.
Provide your medical history, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease (such as kidney stones), lung/breathing problems, long-term diarrhea, metabolic imbalance (metabolic acidosis), a special diet (ketogenic diet), or mental/emotional problems (such as depression, psychosis).
This medication may reduce sweating, increasing the risk of heatstroke. Avoid activities that may cause overheating, stay hydrated, and dress lightly in hot weather.
Side effects like dizziness and lack of coordination may be more severe in older adults and children.
Zonisamide should not be used during pregnancy unless directed by a doctor, as it can harm an unborn child. However, untreated seizures can also pose risks, so do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
The medication is excreted in breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions:
Products such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide) and orlistat may interact with zonisamide.
Other medications that cause drowsiness (e.g., alcohol, antihistamines, sleep or anxiety medications) may also interact.
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid adverse interactions.
Overdose:
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention if serious symptoms occur, such as passing out or trouble breathing.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Storage:
Keep zonisamide away from heat, air, and light to avoid damaging the medication.
Store at room temperature and out of reach of children.
Zonisamide vs. Lacosamide:
Zonisamide
Lacosamide
Used with other medications to control partial seizures.
Treats partial-onset seizures and diabetic neuropathic pain as an adjunctive treatment.
Available in pill form.
Available in pill, liquid, and injection forms.
Effective against a wide range of epilepsy and seizure types, including partial and generalized seizures.
Only effective for partial seizures, not other types.
