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Compare Trileptal vs. Vimpat

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) and Vimpat (lacosamide) are both antiepileptic medications used to treat seizures, but they have some key differences. Trileptal is available in both immediate-release and extended-release (Oxtellar XR) forms and is used to treat partial-onset seizures. The immediate-release version can be used in children as young as 2 years old. Vimpat, on the other hand, is used to treat partial-onset seizures in people as young as 1 month old and can also be used as an add-on therapy for primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures. Common side effects of both medications include include dizziness, nausea, and headaches, as well as serious side effects like suicidal thoughts and severe allergic reactions. Additionally, Trileptal has the risk of low blood sodium levels, whereas Vimpat can cause an abnormal heartbeat. Both medications interact with other medicines, including birth control for Trileptal, and beta blockers with Vimpat. Unlike Trileptal, Vimpat is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance, meaning it has a potential for misuse and dependence.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
Vimpat (lacosamide)
Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
Vimpat (lacosamide)
Summary of Trileptal vs. Vimpat
Summary for Antiepileptic
Prescription only
Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) helps treat partial-onset seizures (also known as focal onset aware seizures), which are seizures that start on one side of the brain. It can be taken by both adults and children, either on its own or with other antiseizure medications. Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) is taken by mouth, either once or twice daily. Some common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and headaches. It's available as generic tablets and oral suspensions, and also under the brand names Trileptal and Oxtellar XR.
Summary for Antiepileptic
Prescription only
Vimpat (lacosamide) is an antiepileptic (anti-seizure) medication. It can be taken on its own or with other antiepileptics to treat partial-onset seizures (also known as focal seizures). It's also an add-on therapy to treat primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures (also known as grand mal seizures). The dosage is adjusted based on how well it works and whether you're having any side effects. Vimpat (lacosamide) is available in both brand-name and generic versions. It's classified as a schedule V controlled substance.
Indications of Trileptal vs. Vimpat
Indications for

•Partial-onset seizures

Indications for

•Treatment for partial-onset seizures - for people at least 1 month of age (Vimpat brand) or at least 4 years old (generic)

•Add-on treatment for primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures - for people at least 4 years old (Vimpat brand only)
Pros and Cons of Trileptal vs. Vimpat
Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
Pros

•Works well for partial-onset seizures

•Immediate-release oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) can be used in children as young as 2 years old

•Available as an extended-release tablet taken once daily

•Available as an oral liquid for people having trouble swallowing the tablets

Cons

•Safety in pregnant and breastfeeding females isn't completely clear

•Interacts with many medications

•Can affect focus, concentration, and your ability to react quickly

•Can cause life-threatening skin reactions

Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
Pros

•Can take the medication on its own for partial-onset seizures (also called focal seizures)

•Can take with other seizure medications

•Available as a tablet and oral solution (and an injection form if you're in the hospital)

•Can give to children 1 month of age and older

Cons

•Shouldn't be the only medication you take for primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures

•Is a controlled medication, so you can only get a limited amount per month

•Interacts with many medications, such as beta blockers

•Can cause side effects like dizziness, headache, and nausea
Common Side Effects of Trileptal vs. Vimpat
Common Side Effects for

•Dizziness (22%)

•Nausea (16%)

•Headache (13%)

•Vomiting (7%)

•Diarrhea (7%)

•Runny nose, sore throat, and other symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection (7%)

Please note: These side effects were reported by people in clinical trials who took Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) on its own, without having taken other antiseizure medications before. The side effects you experience might be different if you're taking or have taken other antiseizure medications.
Common Side Effects for

•Dizziness (up to 31%)

•Headache (up to 13%)

•Nausea (up to 11%)

•Double vision (up to 11%)

•Vomiting (up to 9%)

•Fatigue (up to 9%)

•Blurred vision (up to 8%)

•Difficulty with movement or coordination (up to 8%)

•Sleepiness (up to 7%)
Warnings of Trileptal vs. Vimpat
Common Side Effects for

•Low blood sodium levels

•Severe allergic and skin reactions

•Risk of suicidal thoughts

•Difficulty with speech, concentration, and movement

•Higher risk for other seizures

•Withdrawal

Common Side Effects for

•Suicidal thoughts and behavior

•Dizziness and difficulty controlling movements

•Abnormal heartbeat

•Fainting

•Withdrawal seizures

•Allergic reactions

•Caution if you have PKU (oral solution form only)
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Key takeaways

Summary of Trileptal vs. Vimpat

Indications of Trileptal vs. Vimpat

Pros and Cons of Trileptal vs. Vimpat

Common Side Effects of Trileptal vs. Vimpat

Warnings of Trileptal vs. Vimpat

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