Aptiom (eslicarbazepine acetate) 600mg tablet

Aptiom (eslicarbazepine acetate) is an antiepileptic drug used for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults and children 4 years and older. As epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, managing these episodes is crucial for enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. Aptiom offers a solution by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of seizures.

How It Works

Aptiom (eslicarbazepine acetate) functions primarily by modulating sodium channels in the brain. Here’s a detailed explanation of its mechanism of action:

Mechanism of Action

1. Sodium Channel Blockade:
   • Eslicarbazepine acetate, the active ingredient in Aptiom, acts as a voltage-gated sodium channel blocker. By inhibiting these channels, the drug stabilizes hyperexcited neural membranes and suppresses the repetitive firing of neurons that can lead to seizures.
   • This action helps prevent the spread of abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, which are characteristic of epileptic seizures.
2. Reduction of Neuronal Hyperactivity:
   • By blocking sodium channels, Aptiom reduces neuronal hyperexcitability. This leads to a decrease in the excessive neuronal activity that triggers epileptic episodes, effectively managing seizures in patients.
3. Metabolism and Activity:
   • Eslicarbazepine acetate is rapidly metabolized to its active metabolite, eslicarbazepine. This metabolite is responsible for the drug’s antiepileptic effects.
   • The drug is designed for once-daily dosing, offering a convenient option for patients, with a steady state of eslicarbazepine being achieved after 4 to 5 days of consistent use.

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Eslicarbazepine acetate is well absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations of its active metabolite achieved within 2 to 3 hours post-dose.
• Distribution: The drug has a moderate plasma protein binding rate, meaning it is widely distributed throughout the body.
• Metabolism: Aptiom is primarily metabolized in the liver, with its active metabolite being responsible for the therapeutic effects.
• Excretion: The drug is mainly excreted via the kidneys, with unchanged eslicarbazepine accounting for a significant portion of the excreted dose.

Indications

Aptiom is indicated for:

• Partial-Onset Seizures:
  • Used as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older.
• Epilepsy Management:
  • As a treatment option for patients with epilepsy, particularly those who do not respond adequately to other antiepileptic medications.

Side Effects

While Aptiom is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. It is essential to monitor for any adverse reactions and consult with healthcare providers as needed.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness:
  • Patients may experience dizziness or a spinning sensation.
• Drowsiness:
  • Drowsiness or fatigue is a common side effect, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
• Nausea:
  • Feelings of nausea may occur.
• Headache:
  • Mild to moderate headaches are reported by some patients.
• Double Vision:
  • Blurred or double vision may be experienced, affecting visual clarity.
• Vomiting:
  • Gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, is possible.
• Coordination Problems:
  • Issues with coordination or unsteady movements may occur.

Serious Side Effects

• Hyponatremia:
  • Low sodium levels in the blood, which can lead to confusion, seizures, or coma in severe cases. Regular monitoring of sodium levels is recommended.
• Allergic Reactions:
  • Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Suicidal Thoughts:
  • An increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior, necessitating close monitoring of mood changes.
• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome:
  • A rare but severe skin reaction, characterized by blistering and peeling skin. Immediate medical intervention is required if symptoms occur.

Contraindications

Aptiom is contraindicated in certain conditions, and patients should inform their healthcare providers of any existing health issues before starting treatment.

• Hypersensitivity:
  • Known hypersensitivity to eslicarbazepine acetate, oxcarbazepine, or any of the excipients in Aptiom.
• Severe Hepatic Impairment:
  • Aptiom is not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment due to altered drug metabolism and increased risk of side effects.
• Second- or Third-Degree AV Block:
  • Patients with atrioventricular block should avoid Aptiom as it may exacerbate cardiac conduction abnormalities.
• Renal Impairment:
  • Caution is advised in patients with significant renal impairment. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on renal function.

Pricing Information

Below is a table showing the price of Aptiom in various countries. Note that prices may vary based on healthcare systems, availability, and dosage requirements.

Country	Price (per 600 mg Tablet)	Reference
United States	$25 – $35 per tablet	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£15 – £25 per tablet	NHS
Canada	CAD $30 – $40 per tablet	Canada Drugs
Australia	AUD $35 – $45 per tablet	PBS
Germany	€20 – €30 per tablet	Apotheken Umschau

Top 5 Global Brands

Here are five leading pharmaceutical companies involved in the development and distribution of antiepileptic drugs, including Aptiom:

1. Sunovion Pharmaceuticals:
   • The manufacturer of Aptiom, Sunovion specializes in treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
2. Pfizer:
   • A global leader in pharmaceuticals, Pfizer offers a range of medications for epilepsy and other neurological conditions.
3. UCB Pharma:
   • Known for its focus on neurology and immunology, UCB provides innovative solutions for epilepsy management.
4. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK):
   • GSK is involved in the research and development of antiepileptic drugs and other treatments for neurological disorders.
5. Sanofi:
   • A multinational pharmaceutical company dedicated to providing therapies for epilepsy and related conditions.