Key takeaways
Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) and rufinamide (Banzel) are both antiepileptic medications, but they are used for different types of seizures. Trileptal is used to treat partial-onset seizures and can be taken alone or with other seizure medications. It’s available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms (Oxtellar XR). The immediate-release form can be used in children as young as 2 years old. On the other hand, rufinamide is specifically used for seizures linked to Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and can be given to adults and children as young as 1 year old. Unlike Trileptal, rufinamide must be taken with other seizure medications and with food for full absorption. Both medications can cause dizziness and drowsiness, but rufinamide also has a risk of heart rhythm problems and requires careful monitoring for severe allergic reactions, especially in children under 12. Both medications are available as a low-cost generic.
