Zonisamide

Zonisamide may cause some unwanted side effects. Generally, the common side effects tend to occur at the    beginning of treatment. Such side effects may include:

• Drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue and difficulty in concentrating. Be sure to supervise your child when he/she is involved in activities such as riding a bike or swimming. Be careful when you are giving your child over-the-counter medicines. Medicines for cold and allergy may add on to the drowsiness.
• Numbness in the hands and feet (“pins and needles” sensation)
• Blurred or double vision
• Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, loss of appetite or weight loss. If the medication upsets the stomach, take it with food but do not take it with carbonated drinks
• Difficulty in memory, speech or language problems
• Reduced sweating and increased body temperature. Ensure that your child drinks plenty of fluids before and during physical activities such as exercises or exposure to warm weather.

Inform your doctor if any of the above side effects lasts for more than a few days or if they become serious or bothersome.

Rare but serious side effects may manifest as the following symptoms. Contact your doctor as soon as possible, if you notice any of the following:

• Worsening speech or language skills
• Difficulty or pain in urinating, blood in urine, sudden reduction in urine volume, lower back pain
• Unusual changes in behaviour
• Unusual bruises or bleeding
• Prolonged fever, sore throat and mouth ulcers
• Severe skin rash

Inform your doctor if you notice any other unusual symptoms in your child. Always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any problems or difficulties during or after taking zonisamide.