How does it work?

Primidone is an antiepileptic medicine. Its activity results partly from the action of primidone itself, and partly from its breakdown products, phenobarbital (phenobarbitone) and phenylethylmalonamide (PEMA). It is not fully understood how much of a role each of the three plays in the overall antiepileptic effect of this medicine. The central nervous system is made up of many nerve cells that communicate with each other through electrical signals. These electrical signals bring about body movement by stimulating the nerves to the muscles. Normally there is relatively low level of electrical activity in the brain. In an epileptic fit excessive electrical activity builds up causing uncontrolled stimulation of the brain. Primidone has an inhibitory effect on brain cells and damps down electrical activity, preventing the excessive build up which causes the epileptic fit. The precise mode of action is not fully understood but, in common with other anticonvulants, it appears to alter the electrical activity of the nerve cell membrane.

What is it used for?

Attacks of inability to move (akinetic attacks)

Generalised tonic-clonic seizures

Myoclonic seizures

Partial seizures

Psychomotor (temporal lobe) epilepsy

Tremor without underlying cause (essential tremor)

Warning!

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided.

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Tolerance and dependence may occur to this medicine. Tolerance means that less effect is achieved from the same dose. Dependence means that individuals find it very difficult to stop using the medicine.

Use with caution in

Breathing problems

Children

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Elderly people

Weak or debilitated people

Not to be used in

Life long inherited blood disease characterised by sudden attacks of high blood pressure, mental disturbances and abdominal pain (acute intermittent porphyria)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

When this medicine is taken by a breastfeeding mother it is recommended to monitor the infant for excessive drowsiness. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not stop taking this medication except on your doctor's advice.

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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