Felbatol

What is Felbatol?

Felbatol can be described as an antiepileptic medication and is sometimes referred to as an anticonvulsant. Felbatol is taken alone or in conjunction with other medicines to treat seizures in adults suffering from epilepsy. It is also used in conjunction with other medications in children suffering from Lennox-Gastaut disorder, an extreme epilepsy in childhood that is also associated with behavioral and developmental issues. Felbatol can trigger serious side effects that might not be reverseable. The medicine should be used only in cases that can't be treated with a safer medication. Felbatol can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.

Side effects of Felbatol

Contact emergency medical assistance when you are experiencing symptoms warning signs of an allergic response (hives and breathing problems and swelling in your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever and sore throat, burnt eyes, irritation, as well as a red or purple eruption with peeling and blisters).

If you notice any new or more severe symptoms to your physician, for instance, a change in your mood or behavior, anxiety, panic attacks, or trouble sleeping, or if you are feeling uncontrollably angry, irritable and aggressive, anxious, or hyperactive (mentally and physically) depressed, think about suicide or harming yourself. Felbatol could cause serious or life-threatening consequences for the blood cells of your liver.

Felbatol could cause serious adverse side effects. Consult your physician immediately if you suffer from:

• Easy bleeding or bruising (nosebleeds or bleeding gums) and red or purple spots that appear under your skin
• Red blood cells are low (anemia)—pale skin and fatigue; unusually tired and feeling lightheaded or exhausted; cold hands and feet;
• New symptoms or new signs of a fever or sore throat, a regular or frequent illness,
• Problems with the liver: loss of appetite; nausea; abdominal symptoms; stomach pain (upper right side); nausea; vomiting; dark urine; jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin).

Common adverse effects of Felbatol could include:

• Dizziness, drowsiness;
• Headache;
• Sleep problems (insomnia);
• Weight loss;
• Nausea, vomiting;
• Double vision or
• Changes in your perception of your taste.

This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Other effects may also be present. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Felbatol could cause severe or life-threatening adverse consequences for the blood cells in the liver. Consult your physician if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising or signs of infection that are new (fever or sore throat, frequent or persistent illness) or symptoms of liver disease (loss in appetite, stomach pain in the upper part of your stomach, dark urine, or the skin is becoming yellow as well as your eyes). You shouldn't make use of Felbatol when you are a victim of an illness of the liver or blood-cell problems.

Prior to use this drug

You might be required to sign and read an acknowledgement form for patients prior to obtaining an order for Felbatol. It is essential to understand the dangers and advantages of Felbatol.

You shouldn't take Felbatol if you have an allergy to the drug or are suffering from

• A history of liver disease or
• An ancestry in blood-cell disorders.

Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:

• Kidney disease;
• Depression;
• A depression or
• Suicidal ideas or actions.

Certain people are contemplating suicide when taking Felbatol. Your doctor will examine your progress every few appointments. Family members or other caregivers should be attentive to any changes in your symptoms or mood.

Do not begin or stop taking medication for seizures during pregnancy without a physician's guidance. Having a seizure during pregnancy can be harmful to both the baby and the mother. Inform your doctor right away if you find yourself pregnant. If you're pregnant, then your name might be added to an ob-gyn registry to monitor how felbamate affects felbamate in the infant. It might not be safe to breastfeed while taking this medication. Consult your physician regarding any risks.

How do I take Felbatol?

Your doctor will run blood tests to confirm there are no conditions that hinder you from using Felbatol. Follow all the instructions on the label of your prescription and study all medication guides or instructions sheets. Your doctor may alter the dosage. Make sure you take the medication exactly as prescribed.

If you are switching to Felbatol from a seizure medicine, ensure you follow the instructions of your doctor on how much you should be taking and when to take it. Be sure to avoid medication errors by taking only the strength and dosage prescribed by your physician. Make sure to shake off the oral suspension (liquid) prior to taking the dosage. Utilize the dosing syringe that comes with a dosage-measuring device (not an ordinary spoon). You'll require regular medical tests, and the next dose could be delayed based on the results.

Felbatol increases the chance of getting a blood clot or an infection. Consult your physician if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising or if you notice new symptoms of infection (fever and sore throats, or a frequent or repeated disease). The symptoms could first occur even after you've taken the medication for some time.

Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture. In the event of an emergency, wear a medical identification card to alert others to the medication used to treat seizures. Don't stop taking Felbatol immediately, even if you are well. The abrupt stop can cause seizures. Follow your doctor's advice on increasing your dosage.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Do not take the medicine for as long as you can. However, avoid any missed doses if you are close to the time of the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.

Refill your prescription prior to the expiration date of your medication.

What happens if I overdose?

For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help Line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Consuming alcohol along with Felbatol could cause dizziness and drowsiness.

Interaction with other drugs

Utilizing Felbatol along with other drugs that cause you to feel dizzy or drowsy may increase the effect. Consult your physician before taking opioids, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, or medication to treat seizures or anxiety.

Inform your doctor of any other medications for seizures you are taking. Certain medications can alter the levels of felbamate in your blood, which can reduce the effectiveness of this medication.

Other drugs can interact with Felbatol. Other medications can affect Felbatol, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.