Felbatol (Felbamate)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Felbatol is used to treat seizures which are refractory to other anticonvulsants. It acts by preventing the spread of the seizure once started in the brain. It may also act by increasing seizure threshold.
Side Effects
The most common side effects are: headache (37%), nausea (34%), anorexia (lack of appetite) (19%), sleepiness (19%), dizziness (18%), and insomnia (17%). Among more serious side effects are: aplastic anemia (bone marrow toxicity) and liver damage with liver failure. Periodic testing of both blood and liver for early indication of either of these two side effects is recommended.
Drug Interactions
When Felbatol is added to existing anticonvulsant therapy it may increase blood levels of phenytoin (Dilantin), valproic acid, carbamazepine (Tegretol), and phenobarbital. This could result in increased side effects of those drugs. The following drugs if added to felbatol therapy can increase its blood levels and side effects: carbamazepine and phenytoin.
Cautions and Contraindications
Use with caution in patients with impaired liver function.
Usual Dose
1200 mg/day in divided doses increasing weekly to 3600 mg/day if necessary to maximize effect on seizure control.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.