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carbamazepine oxcarbazepine

Odense University Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Oxcarbazepine blocks voltage-gated sodium channels to reduce neuronal excitability and prevent seizure propagation.

Oxcarbazepine blocks voltage-gated sodium channels to reduce neuronal excitability and prevent seizure propagation. Used for Partial-onset seizures (monotherapy and adjunctive therapy), Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (adjunctive therapy), Bipolar disorder (off-label use).

At a glance

Generic namecarbamazepine oxcarbazepine
SponsorOdense University Hospital
Drug classAnticonvulsant / Antiepileptic agent
TargetVoltage-gated sodium channels
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNeurology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Oxcarbazepine is a keto-analogue of carbamazepine that stabilizes inactivated sodium channels, limiting repetitive neuronal firing. It also modulates high-voltage-activated calcium channels. These actions reduce the spread of seizure activity across neural networks, making it effective for seizure control.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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