Chemical Structure

TRILEPTAL vs carbamazepine (CBZ): different molecule, different metabolite

Adult Efficacy Pediatric Efficacy First-line Use TRILEPTAL vs CBZ

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Differences in mechanisms of action

	TRILEPTAL and CBZ may have different affinities for sodium (Na+) channels1
	TRILEPTAL and CBZ have different effects on calcium channels2 — TRILEPTAL acts on N- and P-type calcium channels — CBZ acts on L-type calcium channels — Activity at these ion channels may contribute to anticonvulsant effects

Different clinical profile delivers enhanced safety and ease of use

Of patients who have had hypersensitivity to carbamazepine, 25% to 30% will experience a reaction to oxcarbazepine. Caution should be exercised when prescribing TRILEPTAL for patients with a history of hypersensitivity to carbamazepine. (Please see WARNINGS section of complete prescribing information.)

1.		Wamil AW, Schmutz M, Portet C, et al. Effects of oxcarbazepine and 10-hydroxycarbamazepine on action potential firing and generalized seizures. Eur J Pharmacol. 1994:271: 301-308.
2.		Stefani A, Spadoni F, Bernardi G. Voltage-activated calcium channels: targets of antiepileptic drug therapy. Epilepsia. 1997:38:959-965.
3.		Tegretol® (carbamazepine) [package insert]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; 2003.