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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)

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Phenobarbital

 

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Summary for Zonegran

Prescription only

Zonisamide (Zonegran) is an antiepileptic. It helps control partial-onset seizures in people 16 years and older with epilepsy. It's usually taken along with other seizure medications. Zonisamide comes as a capsule in both generic forms and the brand name Zonegran. It also comes as a liquid called Zonisade, which is brand name only. You take it by mouth once or twice a day. Common side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. Some medications can interact with zonisamide (Zonegran) and make side effects worse or raise the risk of seizures.

Indications for Zonegran

Pros and Cons for Zonegran

Pros

  • Can be a good add-on option when other medications aren't working well enough to help control seizures
  • Can take with or without food
  • Also comes as a liquid suspension for people who have problems swallowing pills

Cons

  • Not approved for children younger than 16
  • Can take several weeks to get the full benefits of the medication
  • Not safe to take if you have a sulfa allergy

Common Side Effects for Zonegran

  • Sleepiness (17%)
  • Dizziness (13%)
  • Low appetite (13%)
  • Headache (10%)
  • Nausea (9%)
  • Agitation or irritability (9%)
  • Fatigue (8%)
  • Tiredness (7%)
  • Stomach pain (6%)
  • Confusion (6%)
  • Depression (6%)
  • Trouble sleeping (6%)
  • Problems with concentration or memory (6%)
  • Clumsy movement (6%)
  • Double vision (seeing double; 6%)

Warnings for Zonegran

  • Potentially serious allergic reaction to sulfa medications
  • Serious skin reactions
  • DRESS syndrome (a serious allergic reaction)
  • Less sweating and risk of heat stroke
  • Serious eye problems
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Changes in mood or thinking, or problems with cognitive skills
  • Effect on kidney function
  • Too much acid in the blood
  • High ammonia levels
  • Withdrawal seizures after stopping zonisamide (Zonegran) suddenly
  • Harm to an unborn baby

Summary for Phenobarbital

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 for Phenobarbital

Pros and Cons for Phenobarbital

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 for Phenobarbital

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Poor balance or coordination

Warnings for Phenobarbital

  • Dependence and withdrawal
  • Drowsiness
  • Extreme excitement
  • Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
  • Harm to newborn babies

Prices with our coupons for Zonegran vs. Phenobarbital

Price Card Drug Icon
Zonisamide120 capsules / 100mg
$24.44$70.93
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Price Card Drug Icon
Phenobarbital60 tablets / 64.8mg
$15.49$45.50
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