Zarontin (zuh-RON-tin) is a brand name used in the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and some other countries for a type of medicine called ethosuximide (eth-oh-SUX-i-mide).

Forms of Zarontin
Zarontin is marketed in the United States by Parke-Davis (a division of Pfizer). The name or appearance may be different in various countries but usually the dose (measured in milligrams, abbreviated "mg") will be the same. These descriptions apply to the U.S. versions:

Capsules

250-mg orange-colored gelatin capsule

Liquid
250 mg/5 mL (raspberry-flavored)

Generic (non-brand name) ethosuximide (the medicine in Zarontin) is also available in the United States in the same forms and doses. Using generic medicines is often suggested as a way to save money. Whether this is a good idea depends on the medicine and on how sensitive the individual is to possible differences in the way the body absorbs various forms. What's important is that you and the doctor should know what you're getting from the pharmacy and be able to control what type of seizure medicine you get.

How to take and store Zarontin
Follow the doctor's directions. Call if you have any questions. Ask the doctor what to do if you forget a dose. The way the medicine is taken depends, of course, on what form the doctor has prescribed.

Capsules should be swallowed whole. Don't chew them or break them open. Store them at room temperature, protected from heat and out of the reach of children.

For liquid Zarontin, use the same accurate measuring spoon every time so the dose will be correct. Like the capsules, Zarontin liquid (syrup) should be stored at room temperature. Be especially careful to protect it from freezing and keep it away from light and out of the reach of children.

It's OK to take Zarontin either with food or without food, but many people find that stomach upset is less of a problem if they take it with meals.

Be sure to take only the amount that the doctor prescribes. If you think you've taken a little too much (such as one or two extra capsules or an extra teaspoon of liquid), call your doctor for advice. For a larger overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency room right away unless you have special instructions from the doctor.

Don't stop taking Zarontin or change the amount you take without talking to the doctor first. Serious problems sometimes occur when people stop taking Zarontin suddenly.

What if I forget?
In general, if you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, delay that dose for a few hours, instead of taking two doses very close together. Then go back to the regular schedule. If you're not sure about what to do, call the doctor's office for more advice.

If you've been using Zarontin only once a day, you could wait about 12 hours between doses and then resume a 24-hour schedule the next day.

Taking the right amount of seizure medicine on time every single day is the most important step in preventing seizures!