Prescription required. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Zonisade is also marketed internationally under the name Desizon.
Zonisamide is used with other medications to control seizures (epilepsy). It’s a sulfonamide anticonvulsant and a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, but its exact mechanism for seizure management is unknown. Zonisade provides a liquid alternative to tablets and capsules for individuals aged 16 years and older.
Take zonisamide as prescribed, with or without food, usually 1-2 times daily. Drink plenty of fluids (this may help prevent kidney stones) unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
Liquid: Measure the dose carefully with a specialized, accurate measuring device such as an oral syringe or specially designed spoon provided by the pharmacy.
Zonisade is a suspension—the contents will settle to the bottom of the container in between uses. It’s critical to shake the bottle to ensure the product is adequately mixed before each use.
To comply with Canadian International Pharmacy Association regulations you are permitted to order a 3-month supply or the closest package size available based on your personal prescription. read more
Common side effects of Zonisade include:
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Trouble sleeping
Loss of coordination
Lightheadedness
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Double vision
While less common, more serious side effects have also been associated with zonisamide. These may include:
Cognitive/Psychological adverse effects (confusion, memory issues, agitation, or speech problems)
Depression/Suicidal thoughts: Watch for mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts/behavior.
Metabolic Acidosis: Rapid breathing, rapid or irregular heartbeat, fatigue, severe drowsiness.
Kidney/Liver problems: Ensure kidney and liver function are monitored before starting the medication and periodically while the medication is continued.
Serious Allergic Reaction: Rash, difficulty breathing, swelling (face/tongue/throat).
Individual dosing recommendations may vary depending on various clinical factors.
Initial dose: 100 mg once a day.
Titration: After 2 weeks, increase to 200 mg/day (either 1 dose or 2 doses of 100 mg). After 2 more weeks, increase to 300 mg/day, then 400 mg/day (single or divided dose), staying at each dose for at least 2 weeks.
Maintenance dose: 400 mg/day.
Maximum dose: 600 mg/day.
Take with or without food.
Shake well before measuring and administering each dose.
It may take up to 2 weeks to reach steady levels after dose changes.
Doctors may keep patients on lower doses longer to assess effects, as side effects are more common at doses above 400 mg/day. Higher doses have shown limited evidence of additional benefit in clinical trials.
Common questions and answers about Zonisade (Zonisamide):
It takes around two weeks for Zonisade (Zonisamide) to reach a steady state. Beneficial effects may be realized sooner, but more consistent effects may take up to two weeks to establish.
The content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Patients should not use the information presented on this page for diagnosing a health-related issue or disease. Before taking any medication or supplements, patients should always consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional for medical advice or information about whether a drug is safe, appropriate or effective.