Zonegran (Zonisamide)

Do's

• Take Zonegran exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually 1-2 times daily.
• Take it with or without food.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent kidney stones unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
• Swallow capsules whole (if prescribed capsule form).
• Use the provided measuring spoon/device for the liquid form. Shake the bottle well before each dose.
• Take your medication regularly, ideally at the same time(s) each day, for consistent levels in your body.
• Continue taking Zonegran even if you feel well, as seizures can occur without symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Zonegran than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Never use a household spoon for the liquid formZonegran.
• Don't stop taking Zonegran abruptly. Talk to your healthcare provider about gradually decreasing the dosage.
• Don't crush, chew, or break the capsules (if prescribed capsule form).
• Don't use a household spoon for the liquid form.

Be aware that it may take several weeks or months to reach the optimal dose and experience the full benefits. Discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects:

• Cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Taste disturbance or loss of taste
• Rash
• Hair loss or thinning
• Dry mouth or throat
• Confusion or nervousness
• Back pain
• Impotence
• Weight loss
• Changes in mood or behavior

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of kidney problems, including decreased urination, swelling of the hands or feet, or unexplained weight gain
• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea and vomiting
• Serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Metabolic acidosis, which can cause symptoms like bone pain, rapid breathing, fast/irregular heartbeat, and sudden/unexplained tiredness

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Zonegran,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to Zonegran.

Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history, particularly if you have any of the following:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Lung/breathing problems
• Long-term diarrhea
• Metabolic imbalance (metabolic acidosis)
• A special diet (ketogenic diet)
• Mental/mood problems (such as depression, psychosis)

Dizziness or drowsiness: Avoid activities requiring alertness like driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Avoid alcohol and marijuana which can worsen these effects.

Zonegran can decrease sweating. This increases the risk of heat stroke. Avoid hot weather activities, strenuous exercise, and hot tubs. Drink plenty of fluids and stay cool in hot weather. Seek medical help immediately if you experience fever, confusion, headache, or dizziness.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like dizziness and lack of coordination, which can increase the risk of falling.

Children may be more susceptible to side effects like decreased sweating, heat stroke, or metabolic imbalance.

Zonegran may harm an unborn baby. Discuss reliable birth control methods with your healthcare provider before and for 1 month after taking Zonegran. Only use Zonegran during pregnancy if clearly necessary. It passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.