Side Effects Of Anticonvulsants

Rash

Patients who use anticonvulsants may sometimes notice a skin rash. Generally, most rashes associated with these medications are usually mild. Hives might develop, and itching could occur. Some patients could experience a red or pink maculopapular rash across a large area of the body. Carbamazepine, phenytoin, chlorpromazine, ethosuximide, zonisamide, and lamotrigine are the anticonvulsants most often associated with the formation of skin rashes. Rarely, patients may develop a severe rash that worsens rapidly, and this is most likely to occur with lamotrigine and carbamazepine. Patients should inform their doctor immediately if they notice a rash that quickly spreads, and it may be necessary to go to an urgent care center for treatment. Most rashes resolve once the medication is stopped.

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Blurred Vision

Patients who use carbamazepine have reported experiencing double vision and blurred vision, and these side effects have also been experienced by individuals who take lamotrigine and levetiracetam. Some patients have trouble getting their eyes to adjust while focusing on objects at different distances, and nystagmus could be present as well. If vision changes occur when taking anticonvulsants, patients should speak to their neurologist as soon as possible. Reducing the dose of a particular anticonvulsant or switching to an extended-release form of the same medication could sometimes reduce vision issues like blurred vision. Seeing an eye doctor for a complete eye examination is recommended. Patients should let their neurologist and eye doctor know when the vision changes began, what type of visual changes they are experiencing, and if anything makes the symptoms worse or better. It can also be helpful to note whether vision changes were present before the medication was started.

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