Indications 

Zarontin Syrup is prescribed either as a monotherapy or in conjunction with other medications to prevent and manage absence seizures, also known as “petit mal” seizures. 

As an anticonvulsant medication, Zarontin Syrup works by regulating the abnormal electrical activity in the brain associated with seizures. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the medication guide and patient information leaflet for Zarontin Syrup before taking it for the first time and with each prescription refill. If you have any queries, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. 

This medication’s dosage is determined by factors such as the patient’s age, medical condition, ethosuximide blood levels, treatment response, and, in children, their weight. 

Typically, Zarontin Syrup is taken once or twice a day as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

Precisely measure the syrup with a dedicated measuring device or spoon. Avoid using a household spoon to ensure accurate dosage. 

Adhere precisely to your doctor’s prescribed dosage regimen. Your doctor will initiate treatment with a low dose, gradually adjusting it. It may take weeks or months to determine the optimal dosage and experience the full benefits of this medication. 

Consistently take Zarontin Syrup at the same times each day to maximize its effectiveness.  

Seek advice from your doctor before discontinuing this medication, as stopping suddenly may exacerbate certain conditions. Your dosage may need to be tapered off gradually. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Upset stomach, nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite 
• Diarrhea, weight loss 
• Hiccups 
• Swelling in the tongue or gums 
• Headache, dizziness, difficulty concentrating 
• Fatigue 

Tell your doctor promptly if any of these common side effects continue or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Fever, chills, flu symptoms, sore throat, extreme weakness 
• Confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior, intense fear 
• Worsening seizures 
• Lupus-like syndrome: 
  • Joint pain or swelling 
  • Fever 
  • Swollen glands 
  • Muscle aches 
  • Chest pain 
  • Vomiting 
  • Unusual thoughts or behavior 
  • Patchy skin color 
• Signs of inflammation: 
  • Swollen glands 
  • Flu symptoms 
  • Easy bruising or bleeding 
  • Severe tingling or numbness 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Upper stomach pain 
  • Jaundice 
  • Chest pain 
  • New or worsening cough 
  • Trouble breathing 
• Severe skin reaction: 
  • Fever 
  • Sore throat 
  • Swelling in the face or tongue 
  • Burning in eyes 
  • Skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads, causing blistering and peeling 

Call your doctor right away if you exhibit any of these serious side effects. 

Inform your doctor of any emerging or exacerbated symptoms while taking Zarontin Syrup, including: 

• Changes in mood or behavior 
• Anxiety 
• Panic attacks 
• Sleep disturbances 
• Impulsivity 
• Irritability 
• Agitation 
• Hostility 
• Aggression 
• Restlessness 
• Hyperactivity (mental or physical) 
• Depression 
• Thoughts of self-harm 

Allergic Reactions 

Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience symptoms of an allergic response to Zarontin Syrup, such as: 

• Hives 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list does not cover all potential side effects of Zarontin Syrup. Notify your doctor of any additional side effects that may occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Zarontin Syrup, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, especially to ethosuximide, methsuximide, or any inactive ingredients in Zarontin Syrup. 

Inform your doctor about your medical history before taking Zarontin Syrup, particularly if you have a history of: 

• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Mental/mood disorders (e.g., depression or psychosis) 

Orlistat has the potential to interact with Zarontin Syrup. To minimize this risk, inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescribed and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Ensure to review the labels of all your medications, including allergy or cough-and-cold remedies, as they may include ingredients that induce drowsiness. Consult your pharmacist for guidance on using these products safely. 

In addition, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are consuming other substances that cause drowsiness, such as: 

• Alcohol 
• Marijuana (cannabis) 
• Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) 
• Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem) 
• Muscle relaxants 
• Opioid pain relievers (e.g., codeine) 

Zarontin Syrup may contain sugar or alcohol. Exercise caution if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, liver disease, or any other condition requiring limitations or avoidance of these substances in your diet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on using this product safely. 

Refrain from driving or using machinery until you are aware of how Zarontin Syrup impacts your alertness, since it may induce drowsiness. 

Avoid individuals with illnesses or infections while taking Zarontin Syrup. Promptly inform your doctor if you exhibit any signs of infection. 

Older adults may experience heightened sensitivity to Zarontin Syrup side effects, particularly dizziness, loss of coordination, or fainting, thereby increasing the risk of falls. 

Zarontin Syrup may harm an unborn baby, but seizures during pregnancy can harm both mother and baby. Discuss risks and benefits with a doctor for necessary use. 

Inform your doctor if you are nursing a baby, as ethosuximide has the potential to transfer to breast milk and pose a risk to the infant.