Trileptal

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Trileptal

Alcohol can intensify the sedative effects of Trileptal. Avoid alcohol while taking this drug.

If Trileptal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Trileptal with the following:

• Calcium channel blockers such as verapamil (Calan) or felodipine (Plendil)
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin (Dilantin)
• Oral contraceptives
• Valproic acid (Depakene)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Although it's not known for sure, there is good reason to believe that Trileptal can cause birth defects. If you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Trileptal should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the risk.

Trileptal appears in breast milk and could cause serious side effects in a nursing infant. Check with your doctor. You'll probably need to make a choice between breast feeding and continuing your Trileptal therapy.

Recommended dosage for Trileptal

ADULTS

Trileptal taken alone

The usual starting dose is 300 milligrams twice daily. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose to 600 milligrams twice daily. In people with kidney disorders, the starting dose is 150 milligrams twice daily.

When changing from another antiepileptic medication to Trileptal

The usual starting dose is 300 milligrams twice daily. Your doctor will gradually increase the dose over a period of 2 to 4 weeks, while reducing the other medication over a period of 3 to 6 weeks. The final dosage of Trileptal is typically 1,200 milligrams twice daily.

Trileptal combined with another antiepileptic medication

The usual starting dose is 300 milligrams twice daily. Your doctor may increase the dose to 600 milligrams twice daily.

CHILDREN 4 TO 16 YEARS OLD

For children the dosage of Trileptal is based on body weight.