section name header

Pronunciation ⬇

zoe-NISS-a-mide

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: anticonvulsants

Pharmacologic Classification: sulfonamides

Indications ⬆ ⬇

REMS

Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Raises the threshold for seizures and reduces duration of seizures probably by action on sodium and calcium channels.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Decreased frequency of partial seizures.

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Well absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Binds extensively to red blood cells.

Protein Binding: 40%.

Metabolism/Excretion: Mostly metabolized by the liver; 35% excreted unchanged in urine. Some metabolism occurs via CYP3A4 enzyme system.

Half-Life: 63 hr (plasma).

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(blood levels‡)
ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POunknown2–6 hr24 hr

‡Requires 2 wk of dosing to achieve steady-state blood levels.

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

CNS: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS, drowsiness, fatigue, agitation/irritability, depression, dizziness, psychomotor slowing, psychosis, weakness

EENT: amblyopia, tinnitus

Resp: cough, pharyngitis

GI: anorexia, nausea, vomiting

F and E: metabolic acidosis

GU: kidney stones

Derm: STEVENS-JOHNSON SYNDROME, TOXIC EPIDERMAL NECROLYSIS, oligohydrosis (↑ in children), rash

Metab: hyperthermia (↑ in children)

Neuro: abnormal gait, hyperasthesia, incoordination, tremor

Misc: DRUG REACTION WITH EOSINOPHILIA AND SYSTEMIC SYMPTOMS (DRESS)

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Assessment ⬆ ⬇

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation ⬆ ⬇

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes ⬆ ⬇

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Zonegran

Pot. Nursing Diagnoses ⬆ ⬇

Code ⬆

NDC Code