Some Cautions On The Use Of Primidone
Certain drugs are prescribed for the control of epileptic and other seizures. One of these is primidone. The brand names Ro-Primidone and Mysoline are examples. Although classified as an anticonvulsive drug, primidone possesses many of the characteristics of barbiturate, a known central nervous system depressant. It is for this reason that primidone has the potential of being addictive.
Primidone acts on a portion of the brain that inhibits the unusual nerve transmissions that occur in seizure disorders. The person who has been taking this drug for a long time and no longer needs it should not stop abruptly. What he has to do instead is to reduce the dosage gradually over a period of about 10 days.
Abrupt stopping of primidone may bring on severe epileptic seizures. Some of the drug's side effects include fatigue, loss of appetite, emotional upset or irritability, rapid involuntary oscillation of the eyeballs (nystagmus), skin rash, double, vision, and sexual impotence.
In some cases, there can be dizziness and some loss of muscle coordination. Side effects tend to disappear as time goes on. If they are however persistent or severe, the doctor may need to stop treatment with this drug or use a different medication.
Obviously, pregnant women should be advised against the use of primidone. This is especially since some pregnant women who use anticonvulsive medication are said to tend to give birth to children with birth defects.
Again because of its chemical affinity with the barbiturates, primidone may interact with other drugs such as corticosteroids and oral anticoagulants. The drug may likewise interact with sleeping pills, antidepressants, strong analgesics, or sedatives. Alcoholic beverages must be avoided while under primidone therapy as it may enhance the side effects of dizziness and fatigue associated with the use of the drug.
The usual dose of primidone prescribed by doctors to adults is 250 milligrams per day, which may be increased in steps of up to 1,500 milligrams per day, depending on the patient's need. Children under primidone treatment, especially, have to be closely supervised. The usual dose prescribed to those under the age of 8 is 125 milligrams per day; this may be increased in steps of up to 750 milligrams.
Overdosage of primidone presents the same dangers as those in cases of barbiturate overdose. A typical case of primidone overdose is known to produce rashes, fever, sore throat, upset stomach and unusual bruising or bleeding in the victim. In such a case, the patient should be taken to a hospital emergency room immediately.