Primidone 

Primidone

Primidone is an FDA-approved prescription medication that is used to control epilepsy and seizures. It is available in the form of a tablet with 50 and 250 mg strengths. It works by affecting calcium and sodium channels in the brain, reducing abnormal nerve cell activity that leads to tremors and seizures. The medication is typically taken three to four times daily. The medication dosage depends on the patient’s weight, age, and medical condition. The common side effects of Primidone include nausea, dizziness, reduced concentration, and drowsiness. You should take this medication exactly as your doctor directs to prevent unwanted side effects. You can buy Primidone to treat seizures at affordable prices from the convenience of your home. 

Product Overview

Primidone contains primidone, a barbiturate anticonvulsant used to control epilepsy and seizures. It works by affecting sodium and calcium channels in the brain, reducing abnormal nerve activity that leads to seizures and tremors. Primidone is available in tablet form, with strengths of 50 and 250 mg. It should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, typically three to four times daily. The medication dosage may be gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. 

Primidone can be taken by adults, children, and elderly patients, but dosages vary based on age, weight, and medical condition. It works best when taken at regular intervals to maintain a constant level in the body. Common side effects of Primidone include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and reduced concentration. Patients should be carefully monitored for unwanted side effects, especially during the initial treatment period. Precautions include avoiding alcohol and other sedatives, as they can exacerbate side effects. 

You should take the missed dose as soon as remembered unless it is almost time to take your next dose. You should not take double or extra doses to catch up. In case of primidone overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Store primidone in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. For more guidance on primidone usage and management of side effects, call your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and do not discontinue the medication abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

What Are the Uses of Primidone?

It is used to treat alone or along with other medications to control:

• Epilepsy 
• Seizures 

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Primidone?

Primidone is available in the form of a tablet that comes in the following strengths:

• 50 mg
• 250 mg

What Are the Recommended Dosage of Primidone?

Recommended Dosage for Adult Patients

Typical dosage when you haven’t had treatment for seizures before:

• Day 1-3: 125 orally, by mouth at bedtime 
• Day 4-6: 100 mg to 125 mg twice daily
• Day 7-9: 100-125 mg thrice daily
• Day 10 to maintenance dose: 250 mg thrice daily 
• The typical maintenance dosage for patients is 250 mg taken thrice or four times daily, which may be increased to five or six 250 mg tablets daily. Your recommended daily dosage should not exceed 500 mg and should be taken four times daily. 
• If you are already taking other seizure medications, the typical dosage is to follow the above dosing schedule while slowly reducing the dosage of your other medications until an acceptable dosage level is achieved for both medications or until the other medication is completely stopped. 

Recommended Dosage for Pediatric Patients Aged 8-17 Years 

Typical dosage when you haven’t had treatment for seizures before:

• Day 1-3: 100-125 mg orally, by mouth at bedtime 
• Day 4-6: 100-125 mg twice daily 
• Day 7-9: 100-125 mg thrice daily 
• Day 10 to maintenance dosage: 250 mg thrice daily 
• The typical maintenance dosage for your child is 250 mg thrice or four times daily, which may be increased to five or six 250 mg tablets daily. Your child should not take more than 500 mg four times daily. 
• If your child is taking other medications for seizures, the usual dosage is to continue with the above schedule and gradually reduce the other medications until both medications are at a satisfactory dosage or until the other medication is stopped entirely.  

Recommended Dosage for Children Less Than Seven Years of Age

• Day 1-3: 50 mg orally by mouth at bedtime 
• Day 4-6: 50 mg twice daily 
• Day 7-9: 100 mg twice daily 
• Day 10 to maintenance: 125-250 mg thrice daily 
• The typical maintenance dosage is 125-250 mg thrice daily or 10-125 mg/kg of body weight daily in divided doses. 

Recommended Dosage for Geriatric Patients

• Elderly patients may have difficulty processing drugs more slowly. A typical adult dosage may lead to the presence of this drug at higher levels in your body. You may need a dosage adjustment or a different treatment schedule if you are older than 60 years of age. 

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Primidone? 

• Before starting to use the medication, you should carefully read and follow the instructions for use that came along with your prescription. Ask your doctor if you do not understand any part of the patient information leaflet. 
• If you have any questions or concerns, you should ask your doctor or healthcare provider. 
• You should take this medication exactly as your doctor directs, with or without food. Primidone is typically taken three to four times a day. 
• If your stomach gets upset, you should take this medication with food or milk. 
• Your doctor may direct you to initially take this medication at a low dose at night and gradually increase your dose to prevent the risk of unwelcome side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
• If you are switching from a different anticonvulsant to Primidone, your doctor may suggest you continue taking your old medication and gradually reduce the dose as you start taking Primidone. 
• The medication dose depends on the condition being treated, your age, weight, response to treatment, and lab tests. It may take several weeks to determine the dose that works best for you. 
• Primidone works best when the amount of drug present in your body is kept at a constant level. 
• You should take Primidone at evenly spaced intervals, and to help you remember, you should try to take your medication at the same time every day. 
• You should not change the brand of your medicine and ensure that you have a sufficient amount of medicine left with you.
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well. 
• You should not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. If you abruptly discontinue taking anticonvulsant medications, including Primidone, your seizures may worsen or cause a severe seizure known as status epilepticus, which is difficult to treat. 
• If you suddenly stop taking this medication, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as hallucinations, twitching, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Withdrawal from this medication can be severe and include seizures and, in some rare cases, death. 
• To prevent withdrawal, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Withdrawal is more likely to occur when you have been taking this medication for a long time or in high doses. You should let your doctor know immediately if you experience symptoms of withdrawal. 
• Though the medication is effective in managing symptoms of seizures, it can cause addiction in some people. The risk may be greater if you have a substance use disorder, including overuse of or addiction to alcohol/drugs. To reduce the risk of addiction, you should take this medication in the exact doses prescribed by your doctor. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or medical provider for further details. 
• Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it worsens. 
• Do not share this medication with others, even if they have the same symptoms as you. 
• Store this medication away from light, moisture, and heat. 

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Primidone Work?

Primidone is an anticonvulsant that helps control seizures in adults and children. It belongs to a class of drugs known as barbiturate anticonvulsants. Primidone impacts sodium and calcium channels in the brain, reducing abnormal nerve activity that leads to seizures and tremors. Additionally, it affects ion channels and neurotransmitters, acting as a mood stabilizer.

Important Safety Information for Using Primidone

What Are the Side Effects of Primidone?

Like other medications, Primidone may also cause side effects in some patients. It is important to mention that not everyone taking Primidone will experience the side effects. However, patients should be monitored regularly while taking Primidone, especially during the initial treatment period. Some side effects caused by this medication do not require medical attention and usually go away on their own within a few days or weeks. The common side effects caused by Primidone are listed below:

• Drowsiness and fatigue 
• Dizziness 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Ataxia
• Reduced concentration
• Headache 
• Mood/mental changes
• Decreased appetite 
• Lack of muscle control 
• Nystagmus 
• Visual impairment 

Contact your healthcare provider or doctor if these side effects still persist or have become bothersome. In some rare cases, Primidone may cause serious side effects which require prompt medical attention. You can call 911 if your symptoms are life-threatening. Severe side effects, along with their symptoms, are listed below:

• Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms may include itching, rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Blood disorders: Primidone can rarely cause serious blood problems like aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis.
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: As with many anticonvulsants, there’s a small increased risk of suicidal ideation.
• Liver dysfunction: In rare cases, Primidone can cause liver damage, indicated by symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome: A severe skin reaction characterized by widespread rash and blistering.
• Osteomalacia: Long-term use may lead to bone softening due to vitamin D metabolism interference.
• Lupus-like syndrome: Primidone can induce a condition resembling lupus erythematosus in rare cases.
• Severe cognitive impairment: While mild cognitive effects are common, severe impairment can occur in some patients.
• Withdrawal seizures: Abruptly stopping Primidone can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.
• Folic acid deficiency: Long-term use may interfere with folic acid metabolism, potentially leading to anemia. 

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Primidone? 

• Primidone can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms may include hives, rash, difficulty breathing, sores or swelling in the mouth or throat, blistering, or peeling of the skin. You should not take this medication again if you have had an allergic reaction to it, as it can be fatal. 
• It is not recommended to intake large amounts of alcohol while you are taking this medication, as it could worsen side effects. 
• If your seizures worsen or if you experience any new types of seizures while you are taking this medication, you should call your doctor at once. 
• You should not take this medication if you have a rare condition called porphyria that mainly affects the nervous system or skin. 
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, suspect a pregnancy, are planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding while you are taking this medication. 
• Taking Primidone more than the prescribed dosage may cause severe breathing problems. 

What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Primidone?

The FDA has issued boxed warnings for Primidone, which are important to consider when using this medication. Its key points are given below:

• Hepatotoxicity: Primidone can cause liver damage, including rare cases of fatal hepatotoxicity. Regular liver function tests are recommended while you are receiving treatment with Primidone.
• Blood Dyscrasias: Primidone has been associated with blood disorders such as leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia. Monitor blood counts periodically.
• Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: Antiepileptic drugs, including Primidone, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts/ behavior. Individuals should be carefully monitored for any changes in mood or behavior.
• Allergic Reactions: Serious skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) have been reported. Discontinue Primidone if any signs of hypersensitivity occur.
• Withdrawal Seizures: Abrupt discontinuation of Primidone can lead to increased seizure frequency. Taper the dose gradually under medical supervision.

What Are the Primidone Precautions?

• Before taking this medication, share your complete medical history with your doctor, especially if you have the following conditions:
  • Hormone problems, including adrenal disease such as Addison’s disease
  • Renal issues 
  • Liver problems 
  • Lung conditions, including COPD, sleep apnea
  • Mental health conditions such as depression and suicidal ideation
  • Personal or family history of substance abuse disorders, such as drug or alcohol addiction or overuse 
  • Personal or family history of certain blood disorders such as porphyria
  • Certain vitamin deficiencies 
• Before taking Primidone, let your doctor or healthcare provider know if you are allergic to it, to other barbiturates, other anti-seizure medications, any other ingredient present in the product, or any other allergies. Primidone may contain certain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Ask your doctor or medical provider for the full list of ingredients present in the medication. 
• If you are planning to have surgery, including a dental procedure, tell your doctor beforehand about all the medications you are using, including Primidone. Also, tell them about all the prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter, and vitamin or herbal supplements you are currently taking or planning to take. 
• Primidone can make you feel drowsy or dizzy. Consuming alcohol or marijuana can increase dizziness or drowsiness. You should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or indulge in activities that require alertness and clear vision until you can do it safely. You should avoid consuming alcoholic beverages and medications that contain alcohol. Talk to your doctor if you are taking marijuana. 
• Geriatric patients may be more sensitive to this medication, especially dizziness and drowsiness. However, this medication may also cause confusion or excitement in elderly patients. 
• Pediatric patients may also be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication, which can cause excitement and confusion instead of drowsiness in this age group. 
• Since contraception pills, implants, patches, and injections may not be as effective as usual when used along with this medication, you should discuss reliable forms of contraception with your doctor or healthcare provider. 
• Primidone may pass into breast milk and cause feeding problems or excessive sleepiness in the nursing baby. You should consult a licensed medical professional before breastfeeding an infant while taking this medication.

What Are the Contraindications of Primidone?

Primidone is contraindicated for use in patients who:

• Have a known hypersensitivity to this medication or to any of its ingredients. 
• Have a history of porphyria. 
• Have severe respiratory depression or pulmonary insufficiency, alcoholism, drug dependence, hepatic impairment, renal impairment, suicidal thoughts or behavior, sleep apnea, and the presence of uncontrolled pain.

What If You Missed a Dose of Primidone?

• To get the best results from your medication, you should maintain consistency in dosage. To help you remember taking your medication, try to take it around the same time every day. 
• If you forget to take your dose of Primidone, you should take it as soon as you remember. 
• However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you may omit the missed dose and continue taking your medication according to your regular dosing schedule. 
• You should only take one dose at a time. Do not take double or extra doses of the same medication to compensate for the missed dose, as this may cause dangerous side effects. 
• You can set a reminder on your phone to prevent missing your doses. 

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are still determining when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Primidone?

You should not take Primidone more than prescribed, in large quantities, or for longer than recommended, as it may lead to unwanted side effects. Symptoms of Primidone overdose may include fatigue, dizziness, very slow breathing rate, and inability to wake up. If someone has taken this medication more than prescribed and is experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or passing out, call 911 or the poison control helpline immediately. You can also head to the nearest emergency room.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store a Primidone?

• You should keep Primidone in its original container at room temperature in a dark, cool & dry place, away from direct light, excess heat, and moisture. 
• Keep all medications, including Primidone, in a safe place away from the sight and reach of children. 
• Do not use a medication if its expiration date has passed. The expiration date is the last day of the month mentioned on the back of the prescription label or carton.
• Do not keep the medication if it is no longer needed or outdated. Discard them safely. 
• Do not throw it in the household garbage bin, pour it into the drain, or flush it down the toilet. 
• You should dispose of the medications in such a way that children and animals cannot consume them, as it may cause accidental overdose and death if someone else consumes them.
• The best way to eliminate unwanted medications is to give them in the medicine take-back program.
• The best way to eliminate unwanted medications is to give them in the medicine take-back program. 
• To learn more about properly discarding medications, consult your health care provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal company. 

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Primidone?

Drug interactions may affect how this medication works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid drug interactions, you should tell your doctor about all your medications before taking Primidone. This includes all prescription, non-prescription, and over-the-counter drugs and vitamin or herbal supplements you are currently taking or planning to take. You should also tell them if you smoke or consume alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). The potential drug interactions of Primidone are as follows:

• Cancer-treating medications
• Cyclosporine
• Disopyramide
• Doxycycline
• Estrogen or progestin hormones
• Medications for depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions
• Medications for treating HIV infection or AIDS
• Modafinil
• Prescription pain medications
• Quinidine
• Voriconazole
• Warfarin

What Are the Other Primidone Interactions?

Besides drug interactions, there are certain disease interactions that you have to consider before starting to take Primidone. They are as follows:

• Certain hormone problems, including adrenal disease such as Addison’s disease
• Liver problems
• Renal issues 
• Mental health conditions such as depression & suicidal thoughts 
• Lung conditions such as sleep apnea & COPD
• Personal or family history of a substance abuse disorder like overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol
• Personal/family history of a specific blood condition (porphyria)
• Certain vitamin deficiencies (folic acid, vitamin K)

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Primidone. Tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Primidone Alternatives?

People look for alternative medicines of Primidone if it does not suit them or if they don’t get the desired results. There are several effective alternatives to Primidone for treating seizures and epilepsy. The choice of medication depends on the certain type of seizure, the patient’s overall health, potential side effects, and other individual factors. Given below are some common alternatives for Primidone:

• Tegretol (carbamazepine)
• Carbatrol (carbamazepine)
• Depakene (valproic acid) 
• Depakote (divalproex sodium)
• Dilantin (phenytoin)
• Phenytek (phenytoin)
• Keppra (levetiracetam)
• Spritam (levetiracetam)
• Lamictal (lamotrigine)
• Topamax (topiramate)
• Trokendi XR (topiramate)
• Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
• Oxtellar XR (oxcarbazepine)
• Gralise (gabapentin)
• Lyrica (pregabalin)
• Zonegran (zonisamide)
• Zarontin (ethosuximide)
• Sabril (vigabatrin)
• Gabitril (tiagabine)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Primidone Cost & Coupons

The cost of Primidone and options for obtaining it at a lower price are influenced by various factors, including health insurance coverage. Many Americans find that their health insurance does not cover medications like Primidone, leading to high out-of-pocket expenses. To manage these costs, some Americans turn to services like Polar Bear Meds, where they can buy Primidone from Canada in the USA at a reduced price. Additionally, customers can use the Primidone coupon code WELCOMEPB10 to receive a 10% discount on their first order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Primidone help tremors?

Primidone helps tremors by stabilizing neuronal activity in the brain, reducing the excessive electrical signals that cause tremors, especially in conditions like essential tremors.

Can Primidone cause withdrawal symptoms?

Yes, Primidone can cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, hallucinations, twitching, and seizures if abruptly discontinued. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is advised.

How long does Primidone take to start working?

Primidone typically starts to show effects within a few days, but it may take several weeks to achieve the full therapeutic benefit and optimal dosage.

What are the long-term side effects of Primidone?

Long-term use of Primidone can lead to side effects like osteomalacia, cognitive impairment, liver dysfunction, folic acid deficiency, and potential dependency. Regular, careful monitoring of the patient by a healthcare provider is recommended.

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