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Compare Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

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

Key takeaways

Zonisamide (Zonegran) and phenobarbital are both used to treat seizures, but they belong to different medication classes and have distinct characteristics. Zonisamide is an antiepileptic that helps control partial-onset seizures and is available in both capsule and oral suspension forms, with the capsules being available as a lower-cost generic. Phenobarbital, on the other hand, is a barbiturate that treats seizures and is also used as a sedative. It’s only available in generic form and is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its risk of dependence. Both medications have common side effects of sleepiness and dizziness, and can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. Neither medication is safe to use during pregnancy due to its potential harm to unborn babies. Additionally, zonisamide isn’t safe for use in people with sulfa allergies.

  • Zonisamide (Zonegran)
    Phenobarbital
  • Zonisamide (Zonegran)
    Phenobarbital

  • Summary of Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

    Summary for Antiepileptic
    Prescription only

    Zonisamide (Zonegran) is used along with other medications to help control partial-onset seizures in people with epilepsy. It comes as an oral capsule that's available as a lower-cost generic. An oral suspension form of the medication is also available, but it's brand only and can be expensive.

    Summary for Barbiturate
    Prescription only

    Phenobarbital treats seizures and is used as a sedative medication. It's a part of the barbiturate drug class. The most common side effect is sleepiness. It's a schedule IV controlled substance due to the risk of dependence. This means if you suddenly stop the medication, you could get withdrawal symptoms like weakness, muscle twitching, or even confusion and disorientation. There are no brand names available anymore, so only generic versions exist.

  • Indications of Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

    Indications for
    •Partial-onset seizures
    Indications for
    •Seizures
    •Sedation

  • Pros and Cons of Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

    Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
    Pros
    •Capsules available as a lower-cost generic
    •Can take once a day, so it's easier to remember to take
    •Can take with or without food
    •Can be a good add-on treatment to control seizures when other medications aren't working well enough
    •Comes as an oral suspension, which is an option for those who have problems swallowing
    Cons
    •Can't be used by itself to control seizures
    •Only approved for people ages 16 years and older
    •Can take several weeks to get the full benefits of the medication
    •Not safe to take if you have a sulfa allergy
    •Might not be safe to take during pregnancy
    Pros and Const for Barbiturate
    Pros
    •Works to control seizures and as also as a sedative
    •Dose can be adjusted based on your response
    •Available in lower-cost, generic forms
    •Available as a tablet and liquid
    Cons
    •Can lead to withdrawal effects if stopped too suddenly
    •Requires regular blood tests to check appropriate levels to determine the right dose
    •Carries a risk of dependence
    •Not safe during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (17%)
    •Dizziness (13%)
    •Loss of appetite (13%)
    •Headache (10%)
    •Nausea (9%)
    •Agitation or irritability (9%)
    •Fatigue (8%)
    •Tiredness (7%)
    •Depression (6%)
    •Problems with concentration or memory (6%)
    •Stomach pain (6%)
    •Double vision (seeing double; 6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Poor balance or coordination

  • Warnings of Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sulfa medication allergy
    •Serious skin reactions
    •Serious allergic reactions involving organs
    •Reduced sweating and risk of heat stroke
    •Serious eye problems
    •Suicidal behavior
    •Problems with mood or thinking
    •Kidney problems
    •Higher blood acid
    •Withdrawal seizures
    •Harm to unborn baby
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dependence and withdrawal
    •Drowsiness
    •Extreme excitement
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Harm to newborn babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

    Learn more about Zonisamide
    Learn more about Phenobarbital

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