Ethosuximide information sheet

• It must be prescribed by a doctor. You should never give your child anyone else's medications.  

• It is usually used with other anti-seizure medication in epilepsies that are difficult to control. 

Your doctor will check and make sure that other drugs your child is taking are compatible with Ethosuximide. This is also important if you are giving your child herbal or complementary medicines. The doctor can check to make sure they are compatible.

• If your child vomits within 30 minutes after having their dose, then repeat the dose.
• If it is longer than 30 minutes since having the dose you do not need to repeat the dose, but if vomiting or diarrhoea continues, seek medical help.

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered.
• The next due dose should be taken at the usual time.
• However, if the missed dose is remembered in close proximity to the next due dose (i.e. within 3 to 4 hours of the next dose), please seek medical advice.
• If unsure about what to do, the treating GP, epilepsy nurse, paediatrician or neurologist should be contacted.

Keep your capsules or syrup in a cool dry place where the temperature stays below 25°C. Keep it where children cannot reach it.

Sourced from NPS MedicineWise

Your doctor will check and make sure that other drugs your child is taking are compatible with Ethosuximide. This is also important if you are giving your child herbal or complementary medicines. The doctor can check to make sure they are compatible. 

The medication should be used with caution in children with liver or kidney problems. 

All medications have side effects. Not everyone will experience side effects. Below are some of the possible side effects your child may experience: 

Abdominal pain 

• This is the main side effect and is often dose dependant. At times it can be intolerable and the drug may need to be stopped. Sometimes, if the medication is taken at the end of a meal, the side effects may decrease. 

Rash 

• If your child develops a rash, there are important features to look for such as: your child may develop red eyes, red mouth, blisters around the mouth, nose and lips.
• If your child develops a rash or any of these signs please call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest Emergency Department.  The drug needs to be stopped immediately under medical supervision. 

Blood disorders 

Low white cell count. 

Other side effects 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Hiccoughs (hiccups)
• Joint pain
• Drowsiness or lethargy
• Bruising
• Irritability, depression and very rarely, psychosis
• Abnormal movements
• Weight loss 

Pregnancy and contraception 

If a pregnancy is planned, a discussion with your neurologist is recommended. For further information, refer to the reproductive health section.

The information provided in this resource is limited and does not replace the need for a medical consultation. It is very important you speak to your doctor about all aspects of your medication including side effects when medication is first prescribed. Report any concerns to your doctor promptly.