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Hyponatremia and Trileptal
Hyponatremia, or "water poisoning", is a side effect of anti-convulsant and commonly used bipolarity drug Trileptal. The condition, in which excess blood plasma dilutes the salt content of blood, can decrease organ function and endanger the lives of patients taking Trileptal.
Why Trileptal Causes Hyponatremia
Nearly three percent of all patients studied in the clinical trials related to Trileptal experienced hyponatremia during treatment compared to placebo patients. While most patients were asymptomatic, some experienced full-blown water poisoning which required hospitalization. This nearly always resolved once Trileptal was discontinued in these patients. Trileptal causes chemical reactions within the body that reduce serum sodium, diluting the salt content of the blood and causing a disruption in the electrochemical balance of the nervous system. Symptoms of hyponatremia include confusion, fatigue, nausea, malaise, and the potential for increased seizures - exactly the symptoms that Trileptal claims to help conquer.
Treatment of Hyponatremia
If you are taking Trileptal and experience symptoms of hyponatremia, get medical assistance immediately. Failure to seek immediate medical care may cause further worsening of the hyponatremia symptoms and could lead to shock, coma or death. You should go to a doctor's office or emergency room. You will probably be placed on an intravenous (IV) drip to help restore the electrolyte and salt balance in your bloodstream. Tell your doctor that you are taking Trileptal in order to help him or her determine the best course of action. This could vary depending on your dosage of and dependence on Trileptal; your doctor may need to wean you off of the drug gradually in order to prevent a worsening or recurrence of seizures.
If You've Experienced Trileptal Side Effects
Other dangerous Trileptal side effects, including extreme skin hypersensitivity reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), have been noted in some Trileptal patients. If you think your health has suffered or is suffering because of your use of this popular anti-convulsant, contact a doctor immediately. You may wish to consult with an experienced unsafe drugs attorney who can evaluate your case and tell you whether you have a valid claim. Your Trileptal lawyer will walk you through the litigation process and help you receive the monetary compensation you deserve for your Trileptal-related injuries and conditions.
