Information on Mysoline and How to Use It, Precautions and Other Medications to Avoid While Taking

This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.

Mysoline Consumer Information

MYSOLINE

Generic Name: primidone (PRIM i done)

Brand Names: Mysoline

What is the most important information I should know about primidone?

  • Do not stop taking your medication even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking primidone to prevent your seizures from recurring.
  • Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.
  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Primidone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What is primidone?

  • Primidone is used to control seizures. The exact way that it works is unknown. However, it is believed that primidone alters the chemical impulses in the brain that cause seizures.
  • Primidone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking primidone?

  • Do not take primidone if you have porphyria.
  • Discuss with your doctor any other medical conditions that you have and any medicines that you take, including over-the-counter preparations.
  • It is not known whether primidone will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
  • Primidone passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take primidone without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take primidone?

  • Take primidone exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  • Take each dose of primidone with a full glass of water.
  • Primidone can be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.
  • Shake the liquid form of primidone well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the suspension with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
  • Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.
  • Do not stop taking your medication, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking primidone to prevent your seizures from recurring.
  • Store primidone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

  • Seek emergency medical treatment.
  • Symptoms of a primidone overdose include dizziness; drowsiness; an uncoordinated feeling; nausea; vomiting; blurred vision; and irregular, rapid eye movements.

What should I avoid while taking primidone?

  • Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can cause deep sedation or sleepiness. It may also increase the risk of seizures.
  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Primidone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.