Oxcarbazepine is the generic name for Trileptal, an anti-seizure medication that is prescribed to treat partial (focal) seizures associated with epilepsy. The designation of partial seizures, according to the National Institutes of Health, refers to the fact that this type of seizure activity results from electrical disturbances that occur in one region of the brain; thus, Trileptal helps to reduce disorganized electrical impulses that cause seizures. This medication should be used with caution, for example, as in the case of pregnant women because Trileptal can cause birth defects.
Sedative Effects
According to Drugs.com, the most frequently documented side effects of participants in clinical studies that occurred more often in the drug group than in the placebo group included somnolence (drowsiness), dizziness and fatigue. Additionally, 23 percent of 1,537 patients stopped taking the drug during clinical trials because of dizziness (6.4 percent), somnolence (3.8), headaches (2.9) and fatigue (2.1).
Gastrointestinal Effects
Trileptal can produce multiple stomach and intestinal-related problems such as general stomach upset or irritation, however, the most frequently reported effects were nausea (5.1 percent) and vomiting (4.9 percent). Additional complaints overall occurred in less than 5 percent of participants and included pain in the abdomen and indigestion with belching. Other gastrointestinal symptoms that one may experience include: diarrhea, gastritis and esophagitis, appetite changes and constipation. These effects are not viewed as serious and typically disappear over time.
Visual Effects
A cluster of side effects from this medication involve one's vision. Overall, in terms of all clinical trials conducted, abnormal vision symptoms occurred in more than 5 percent of the participants. Common vision problems reported are diplopia, or seeing double, and blurred vision. Other visual reactions involved difficulty in distinguishing the distance of objects. Changes in eye movements also may be experienced that consist of fast, involuntary or uncontrolled back and forth eye movements known as nystagmus. A patient starting this drug likely will notice changes in vision and/or involuntary eye movements; however, such changes will likely disappear in time. If vision problems persist or become a concern, the prescribing doctor needs to be informed so adjustments can be made.
Motor Effects
Trileptal can cause involuntary movements as well as disrupt motoric processes of the body. Specifically, adverse effects that occurred in over 5 percent of all participants included abnormal gait, ataxia and tremors. Thus, one's gait becomes abnormal and smooth muscle coordination with balance are disrupted when walking; this gives the impression of clumsiness and unsteadiness. Additionally, tremors or uncontrollable trembling/shaking may develop in the hands or in other regions of the body. These troublesome reactions need to be brought to the immediate attention of the prescribing doctor, especially if walking is difficult and the gait is very unsteady, so as to avoid falls or the chance of injury.
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