Mysoline (Primidone)

What is Generic Mysoline?

It is an anticonvulsant that refers to barbiturates and reduces the excitability of neurons in the epileptic focus. Causes poorly pronounced somnolent effect. On chemical structure it is similar to Phenobarbital but differs in stronger anticonvulsant action without causing total inhibitory effect on the central nervous system (CNS).

Its action is associated with inhibition of transfer of excitation from the pyramidal and segmental spinal tracts to motor neurons in the spinal cord.

After taking it is quickly and completely absorbed.

The drug is excreted in the form of active ingredient and in the form of metabolites. The effect of the medication is shown in the case of presence of at least 12 mcg / ml concentrations in blood. In other forms of epilepsy (seizures polymorphic, non-convulsive form, myoclonic seizures) drug is weakly effective.

In what kind of disease treatment Mysoline is helpful?

• Epilepsy of various origins manifested by mainly big seizures;
• Less effective in focal, myoclonic, akinetic attacks.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take Generic Mysoline?

It is advisable not to take this drug in the following cases:

• Ilnesses of the liver, kidney and hematopoietic system;
• Hypersensitivity (including barbiturates);
• Anemia, leukopenia;
• Pregnancy, breast-feeding.

It is necessary to monitor the health of elderly patients with reduced renal function that take Primidone.

How should I take Mysoline?

Pills should be taken by mouth after a meal with a liquid.

Dosage information

The starting dose for adults is 0,125 grams per day which is every 3 days increased by 0.25 g up to achieving a therapeutic effect. For adult patients a daily maximum dose of 2 grams. Children require from 0.125 g to 0.5 g in one day depending on the age. Conduction of the cancellation and replacement of the drug should be performed gradually.

The total dose is generally divided into two equal parts and taken in the morning and evening.

Some patients need high-dose at a time when seizures occur more frequently. For example if seizures occur at night then the entire dose or a large part of it is prescribed in the evening; If seizures occur due to certain circumstances it may be useful (for example, during menstruation) a small increase in dose during this period may be useful.

Many patients notice its good efficacy in essential tremor. Primidone in tremor is prescribed in much lower doses than with the treatment of convulsive states. Typically, the initial dose is 25 mg at night followed by its increase up to 50 mg.

What may interact with Mysoline?

There are reports of increasing, decreasing and no changes of concentrations of active substance in plasma when it is used with valproic acid. At simultaneous application with Acetazolamide are possible osteomalacia, rickets and a decrease in the efficiency of Primidone. Also is possible increasing of concentration of active ingredient in the blood plasma with Clonazepam or Phenobarbital.

In coadministration of drug with other anticonvulsant drugs their effect is synergistic. Primidone increases the effects of Methotrexate, Cyclophosphamide, Sulfonylureas and accelerates the biotransformation of therapeutic agents, derivatives of estrogen contraceptives, Coumarin, Doxycycline, Griseofulvin. With Rifampicin and in case of alcohol abuse this drug reduces efficiency and accelerates its metabolism.

By increasing the activity of hepatic microsomal enzymes Mysoline accelerates metabolism and reduces the effect of Paracetamol, corticosteroids and indirect anticoagulants, tricyclic antidepressants, caffeine and others. It can enhance inhibition of CNS in combination with alcohol.

What should I watch for while taking Mysoline?

It enhances the effect of sleeping pills and can be used in complex anticonvulsant therapy. Mysoline should be used with caution by the elderly, weakened patients and children. With prolonged use may develop drug dependence.

This anticonvulsant slows psychomotor reactions and it is not recommended to work with a variety of mechanisms, avoid driving and other activities requiring high-speed response. Like other antiepileptic drugs it may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or suicidal behavior. Therefore, during the treatment all patients should be monitored for early detection of disorders or behavior changes and suicidal tendencies.

Taking higher doses is not recommended because it does not lead to a further improvement of the increase in dose. Patients in the early stages of treatment in some cases complained of drowsiness.

What side effects may I notice from Generic Mysoline?

Usually all undesirable effects occur mainly at the beginning of therapy.

CNS: are possible apathy, anxiety, headache, dizziness; rarely - nystagmus, ataxia, psychotic reactions.

Digestive system: nausea, vomiting.

Hematopoietic system: rarely - leukopenia, lymphocytosis; in some cases - megaloblastic anemia.

Other: allergic reactions; lupus-like syndrome, arthralgias.

Cancellation of therapy and replacement is carried out gradually.

In case of overdose can occurs crystalluria which can be one of the diagnostic features of Primidone overdose.

Where can I keep Mysoline?

Keep in a dry, dark place at a temperature no higher than 25 ° C.