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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.

Oxcarbazepine

(Trileptal)

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Lacosamide

(Vimpat)

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Summary for Trileptal

Prescription only

Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) is used to treat partial-onset seizures (also called focal aware seizures). This antiepileptic is for people 2 years of age and older. It helps calm the brain to keep seizures from happening. Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) comes as immediate-release tablets and an oral suspension. You take it by mouth twice a day. Some common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Immediate-release oxcarbazepine comes in both brand-name and generic versions. You can take it by itself or with other anti-seizure medications.

Indications for Trileptal

Pros and Cons for Trileptal

Pros

  • Okay for children as young as 2 years old with partial-onset seizures to take
  • Available as an oral liquid for people who have trouble swallowing the tablets
  • Dose can be adjusted based on response to the medication

Cons

  • Can make it hard to focus and react quickly
  • Can cause serious skin reactions
  • Interacts with many medications, including some antidepressants and other seizure medications

Common Side Effects for Trileptal

  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Tiredness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Trouble walking
  • Double vision
  • Other changes in vision
  • Shaky eye movements (nystagmus)

Note: Side effects were reported by people who took oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) either by itself or with other seizure medications.

Warnings for Trileptal

  • Low sodium levels
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Serious skin reactions
  • Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Trouble with concentration, speech, and movement
  • Higher risk of having new seizures
  • Withdrawal seizures

Summary for Vimpat

Prescription only

Lacosamide (Vimpat) is an antiepileptic. People 1 month and older can take it on its own or with other antiepileptics for partial-onset seizures (also called focal aware seizures). It's also an add-on medication for people 4 years and older who have primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures (or grand mal seizures). Lacosamide (Vimpat) comes as tablets and an oral solution that's taken by mouth twice a day. It's also available as an injection that's used in the hospital. Side effects include dizziness, headache, and nausea. Lacosamide (Vimpat) comes as both brand-name and generic versions, but it's a controlled substance.

Indications for Vimpat

Pros and Cons for Vimpat

Pros

  • Can take with other seizure medications
  • Available as a tablet and oral solution
  • Okay for children 1 month of age and older with partial-onset seizures and children 4 years and older with PGTC seizures

Cons

Common Side Effects for Vimpat

  • Dizziness (31%)
  • Headache (13%)
  • Nausea (11%)
  • Double vision (11%)
  • Vomiting (9%)
  • Tiredness (9%)
  • Blurred vision (8%)
  • Problems with movement or coordination (8%)
  • Sleepiness (7%)
  • Tremor (7%)

Warnings for Vimpat

  • Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Dizziness and problems with controlling movements
  • Abnormal heartbeat
  • Withdrawal seizures
  • Allergic reactions
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - oral solution only

Prices with our coupons for Trileptal vs. Vimpat

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Oxcarbazepine60 tablets / 300mg
$9.00$9.00
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Vimpat60 tablets / 200mg
$1,186.07$1,498.76
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