Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that is caused by chemical imbalance in a certain part of the brain. ADHD affects as many as 5% of all children. About half the ADHD children carry the condition into adulthood. The major treatment of ADHD involves taking prescription medications. One drug that is commonly used to help treat ADHD symptoms is Trileptal. There are dangers of Trileptal that parents should know about before their child starts taking it.



Trileptal is also known as oxcarbazepine. It is an anti-seizure medication used to stabilize the levels of electrical activity in the brain. It is most often prescribed to patients who have ADHD combined with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). While other anti-seizure medications have undergone various studies, the effectiveness of Trileptal has not been studied extensively.

There are several side effects associated with Trileptal. These can range from mild to severe. While not every patient who takes Trileptal experiences these side effects they are quite common. Trileptal side effects are divided into two categories: nuisance and dangerous.

Nuisance side effects are those that may be difficult to deal with but do not pose any additional health threat.

Headache ? One of the most common side effects of taking Trileptal, headaches can range from mild to severe and are often hard to get rid of.

Fatigue ? Often patients taking Trileptal report a constant general fatigue or sleepiness. This may improve with time.

Gastronomical problems ?These include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and vomiting. If these symptoms appear persist, the patient can become weak from lack of nutrients.

Agitation ? Trileptal can cause increased agitation in some people. This could add to the already unstable behavior of an ADHD child or adult.

Acne ? Many patients on Trileptal report increased acne which may be due to hormone imbalance.

Skin reactions ? Patient may develop skin rash or irritation. If the rash is severe or does not go away, you should notify your doctor.

Concentration and memory problems ? These may be hard to diagnose because they are also ADHD symptoms experienced by some patients. If these side effects worsen, you should talk to your doctor.

Dangerous side effects of Trileptal are not only annoying but can also pose serious health hazards to those taking the drug.

Inflammation of the liver ? Also known as hepatitis which can be caused by prolonged use of the drug.

Chronic inflammatory diseases - These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory lung disease, inflammatory bowel disease, atherosclerosis and psoriasis.

Low blood sodium levels ? Which can lead to many other problems in the body. Patients should have their blood tested to determine the sodium levels are correct.

Discuss with your doctor the dangers of Trileptal before starting on the medication. If you experience any Trileptal side effects, let your doctor know so that he can prescribe a lower dosage or an alternative ADHD medication for you. Seek immediate medical attention for severe reactions to Trileptal.