Trileptal (generic name: oxycarbazepine) is a medication used to manage partial seizures, a condition in which the electrical activity in the brain is disorganized in only one region. It is an anticonvulsant medication that helps reduce the brain's jumbled electrical activity. According to the National Library of Medicine, Trileptal can be used to treat adults and children between the ages of 2 to 16. Trileptal is available as a tablet or oral suspension and is typically taken twice daily.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Trileptal can cause gastrointestinal irritation. It can cause heartburn, stomach pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation and an altered sense of taste. Trileptal can affect your state of mind and cause trouble concentrating, memory loss, mood swings, nervousness and slowed thinking. Other common side effects include trouble seeing, drowsiness, dizziness, rapid eye movements, tremors, lack of coordination and an earache. Trileptal can also cause diaphoresis (sweating), acne, a toothache, epistaxis (nosebleeds) and vaginal irritation, burning or discharge. These side effects shouldn't be a cause for upset, but call your medical physician if symptoms remain for three or more days.
Harmful Effects
Trileptal's harmful side effects include increased seizures, fever, the flu, a headache and sore throat, according to Drugs.com. It can also cause swollen glands, decreased urination, weakness and bleeding or bruising. MedlinePlus indicates that Trileptal can cause chest pain, itching, joint pain, swelling of your extremities or face, extreme thirst, vomiting, a rash and mouth, skin or genital blisters. Other dangerous side effects include yellowing of your eyes or skin (jaundice), rectal bleeding, bloody stools or chills. Call your medical doctor at once, and she will discontinue Trileptal and find a better medication for you.
Other Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, Trileptal can cause hyponatremia (low sodium levels), increase your risk of suicidal ideation and may lead to serious skin reactions, such as toxic epidermal necrolysis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome (both conditions cause red, irritated skin and extensive peeling). Trileptal can also cause hypotension (low blood pressure), trouble walking and gallstone formations.
Miscellaneous Concerns
Do not take Trileptal if you are pregnant. It can pass into your baby's system and cause birth defects. Trileptal can also contaminate breast milk, so tell your doctor if you plan to breastfeed.
Drugs.com says that you should tell your doctor if you are taking carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin or valproic acid. These drugs can mix with Trileptal and cause the aforementioned side effects.
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