Felbatol: An Overview of Uses, Dosages, Demographics, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Introduction Felbamate, marketed under the brand name Felbatol, is a prescription medication used to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy. It is usually used as a last resort when other drugs fail to help control seizures. Felbatol is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of seizures in adults and children over the age of two. Uses Felbatol belongs to a class of medications called anticonvulsants. It is used to treat several types of seizures, including partial seizures with or without secondary generalization, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), and other types of epilepsy. Felbatol works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to reduce the occurrence and severity of seizures. Felbatol may be used alone or in combination with other anticonvulsants. Dosage The dosage of Felbatol can vary depending on the age, weight, and severity of the patient's condition. The recommended starting dosage for adults and children over the age of 14 is 1,200 mg per day, divided into three or four doses. The maximum dose is 3,600 mg per day. For children between the ages of two and 14, the recommended starting dose is 15 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into three or four doses. The maximum dose is 45 mg per kg of body weight per day. Demographic Felbatol is primarily used to treat epileptic patients who have not responded well to other medications. It is not typically used as a first-line treatment for epilepsy. The medication is available in the United States and other countries. The demographics of people who use Felbatol may vary depending on the country and the prescribing practices of individual doctors. Side Effects Felbatol can cause a variety of side effects. The most common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, headache, and tremors. Other potential side effects include constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, fever, increased sweating, and weight gain. Felbatol can also cause more serious side effects, such as liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should contact their doctor immediately. Interactions Felbatol can interact with other medications, including antacids, antidepressants, blood thinners, and birth control pills. Patients should inform their doctor or pharmacist of all the medications they are taking before starting Felbatol. Patients should also avoid alcohol while taking Felbatol, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects. Generic Options There are currently no generic versions of Felbatol available in the United States. The patent for the brand-name drug expired in 2001, but no companies have produced a generic version due to the potential for serious side effects and the limited demand for the drug. Conclusion Felbatol is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy. It is usually used as a last resort when other medications fail to help control seizures. Felbatol can cause a variety of side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should contact their doctor immediately. Felbatol can interact with other medications and patients should inform their doctor or pharmacist of all the medications they are taking before starting Felbatol. Currently, there are no generic versions of Felbatol available in the United States.