Indications 

Aptiom is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults and children aged 4 years and older, either as monotherapy or in combination with other medications. 

Aptiom belongs to the class of drugs called anticonvulsants. Although its precise mode of action is uncertain, it is believed to function by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium channels, thereby decreasing the frequency of seizures. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Aptiom and with each prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. For questions or clarifications, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Aptiom dosage is determined by the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. In children, the dosage is also dependent on their weight. 

Typically, physicians initiate this medication at a low dose and may increase it after one week. Further dosage adjustments may be made at least one week apart, if necessary to effectively manage seizures. 

Aptiom is usually taken once a day, as directed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. Tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed. 

For optimal results, take Aptiom regularly, around the same time(s) daily, exactly as directed. Refrain from taking more or less of it or taking it more frequently than prescribed, as this will not improve your condition faster and can increase the risk of side effects. 

Keep taking Aptiom as prescribed, even if you feel better. Before discontinuing treatment, consult your healthcare provider as abruptly stopping this medication can lead to severe complications such as uncontrolled seizures (status epilepticus). Gradual dosage reduction may be necessary. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Aptiom. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor right away. 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness 
• Sleepiness 
• Nausea 
• Headache 
• Double vision 
• Vomiting 
• Feeling tired 
• Blurred vision 
• Shakiness 
• Problems with coordination 

Serious Side Effects 

• Indication of nervous system problems: 
  • Dizziness 
  • Trouble walking or with coordination 
  • Feeling sleepy and tired 
  • Trouble concentrating 
  • Vision problems 
• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes 
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Stomach pain 
  • Dark urine 
• Signs of a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body: 
  • Skin rash 
  • Fever 
  • Swollen glands 
  • Flu-like symptoms 
  • Muscle aches 
  • Severe weakness 
  • Unusual bruising 
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes 
• Signs of dangerously low levels of sodium in the body, which can cause a life-threatening electrolyte imbalance: 
  • Nausea 
  • Lack of energy 
  • Confusion 
  • Feeling tired or irritable 
  • Severe weakness 
  • Muscle pain 
  • Increased seizures 
• New or worsening symptoms:  
  • Mood or behavior changes 
  • Depression 
  • Anxiety 
  • Agitation 
  • Hostile 
  • Restless 
  • Hyperactive (mentally or physically) 
  • Having thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself 

Get medical help immediately if you experience any of the serious symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Seek immediate medical assistance if you exhibit symptoms of an allergic reaction with Aptiom, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Facial or throat swelling 

A severe skin reaction may also occur. Get immediate medical assistance if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• A spreading red or purple rash with blistering and peeling 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Aptiom. If you notice other effects not listed above, tell your doctor promptly.  

Cautions 

Before taking Aptiom, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to: 

• Eslicarbazepine 
• Oxcarbazepine 
• Carbamazepine 
• Other medicines 
• Any ingredients present in Aptiom tablets 

To ensure Aptiom is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Mineral imbalances such as low levels of sodium in the blood 

Apriso may interact with other medications, including orlistat and rilpivirine. To avoid drug interactions, inform your physician and pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Avoid taking medications containing oxcarbazepine while taking Aptiom, as they are very similar. 

Review the labels of all medications you are taking, including allergy or cough-and-cold products, as they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Consult with your pharmacist to ensure the safe use of these products. 

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are using products that induce drowsiness, including: 

• Alcohol 
• Cannabis 
• Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) 
• Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g, alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem) 
• Muscle relaxants (e.g, carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine) 
• Opioid painkillers (e.g, codeine, hydrocodone) 

Aptiom may potentially cause false test results in certain laboratory tests, including thyroid tests. Inform laboratory personnel and all doctors involved in your care about your use of this medication. 

Exercise caution with activities that require mental alertness or motor skills while taking Aptiom, as it may impair thinking or reactions. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you understand how this medication may impact your abilities. 

Aptiom may reduce the efficacy of hormonal birth control methods such as pills, patches, or rings, potentially resulting in unintended pregnancy. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist to determine if additional reliable birth control measures should be used concurrently with Aptiom, and for at least one menstrual cycle after completing the treatment. If you experience new spotting or breakthrough bleeding, it may indicate reduced effectiveness of your birth control and should be reported to your doctor. 

Consult your doctor before starting or discontinuing Aptiom during pregnancy, as having a seizure while pregnant could have adverse effects on both the mother and the baby. Notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while using Aptiom to manage seizures. 

Breastfeeding should be avoided while taking Aptiom, as eslicarbazepine can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the nursing baby.