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Rufinamide

Pronounced

"roo-FIN-a-mide"

Common brand names:

Banzel

Uses

Rufinamide is used with other medications to prevent or control seizures (epilepsy) associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS).

This medication is an anticonvulsant. Rufinamide is thought to work by acting on the sodium channels in the brain that carry excessive electrical charges that may cause seizures.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using rufinamide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight.

If you are using the suspension form of this medication, shake the bottle well before each dose. Measure each dose carefully with the provided oral dosing syringe. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Rinse the syringe with tap water after each use.

To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. It is very important to follow your doctor's dosing instructions exactly. It may take several weeks to reach the best dose for you and to get the full benefit from this medication. Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. This drug works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. It is best to take rufinamide at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions (such as seizures) may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.

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Information expires December 2025.