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Trileptal

oxcarbazepine · Tablet, Film Coated

Prescription NDA TE AB RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Trileptal
Generic name
oxcarbazepine
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
3
Packages
6
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Oxcarbazepine 150 mg/1 312136 View
Oxcarbazepine 300 mg/1 312136 View
Oxcarbazepine 600 mg/1 312136 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route of administration
Oral
Presentations
9

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Anti-epileptic Agent [EPC] EPC All 62 members
Decreased Central Nervous System Disorganized Electrical Activity [PE] PE All 114 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
021014
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
January 14, 2000
Sponsor
NOVARTIS
Products on application
3
Submissions recorded
36
Products approved under application 021014.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
021014-001 TRILEPTAL TABLET OXCARBAZEPINE Prescription AB RLD
021014-002 TRILEPTAL TABLET OXCARBAZEPINE Prescription AB RLD
021014-003 TRILEPTAL TABLET OXCARBAZEPINE Prescription AB RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 021014.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 49 Labeling Approved September 23, 2025 Standard
Supplement 50 Labeling Approved September 4, 2024 Standard
Supplement 43 Labeling Approved January 4, 2019 Standard
Supplement 42 Labeling Approved March 22, 2018 Standard
Supplement 41 Labeling Approved November 17, 2017 Standard
Supplement 36 Labeling Approved March 23, 2017 Standard
Supplement 39 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 17, 2016 Standard
Supplement 40 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 6, 2016 Standard
Supplement 38 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 14, 2015 Standard
Supplement 33 Labeling Approved July 3, 2014 Standard
Supplement 35 Labeling Approved June 6, 2014 Standard
Supplement 34 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 8, 2014 Standard
Supplement 29 Labeling Approved February 8, 2013 Standard
Supplement 31 REMS Approved October 30, 2011 N/A
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 27 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 25 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 24 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 22 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 19 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 15 Labeling Approved March 3, 2011 Standard
Supplement 26 Labeling Approved April 23, 2009 901 Required
Supplement 21 Labeling Approved August 31, 2007 Standard
Supplement 20 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved January 9, 2007 N/A
Supplement 14 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 9, 2005 Standard
Supplement 13 Efficacy Approved October 28, 2005 Priority
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved March 25, 2005 Standard
Supplement 3 Efficacy Approved August 7, 2003 Standard
Supplement 7 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 27, 2003 Standard
Supplement 5 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 1, 2002 Standard
Supplement 6 Labeling Approved April 1, 2002 Standard
Supplement 4 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 14, 2001 Standard
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved August 29, 2000 Standard
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 2, 2000 Standard
Original application 1 Type 1 - New Molecular Entity Approved January 14, 2000 Standard
Supplement 51 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved — Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · September 26, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · September 26, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · September 25, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · February 11, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · February 11, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · September 5, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · September 5, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · February 4, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · January 8, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · March 28, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · March 23, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · November 27, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 20, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 28, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 24, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · July 8, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · July 8, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · February 12, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · February 12, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · November 14, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 21, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · March 8, 2011

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20251216). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20251216

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Dosage and Administration ( 2.8 ) 9/2025

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE TRILEPTAL is indicated for use as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults and as monotherapy in the treatment of partial-onset seizures in pediatric patients aged 4 years and above, and as adjunctive therapy in pediatric patients aged 2 years and above with partial-onset seizures. TRILEPTAL is indicated for: Adults: Monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial-onset seizures Pediatrics: - Monotherapy in the treatment of partial-onset seizures in children 4-16 years - Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial-onset seizures in children 2-16 years ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Adults: Initiate with a dose of 600 mg/day, given twice a day Adjunctive Therapy: Maximum increment of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals. The recommended daily dose is 1200 mg/day ( 2.1 ) Conversion to Monotherapy: Withdrawal concomitant over 3 to 6 weeks; reach maximum dose of TRILEPTAL in 2 to 4 weeks with increments of 600 mg/day at weekly intervals to a recommended daily dose of 2400 mg/day ( 2.2 ) Initiation of Monotherapy: Increments of 300 mg/day every third day to a dose of 1200 mg/day ( 2.3 ) Initiate at one-half the usual starting dose and increase slowly in patients with a creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min ( 2.7 ) Pediatrics : Initiation with 8 to 10 mg/kg/day, given twice a day. For patients aged 2 to < 4 years and under 20 kg, a starting dose of 16 to 20 mg/kg/day may be considered. Recommended daily dose is dependent upon patient weight. Adjunctive Patients (Aged 2-16 Years): For patients aged 4 to 16 years, target maintenance dose should be achieved over 2 weeks ( 2.4 ). For patients aged 2 to < 4 years, maximum maintenance dose should be achieved over 2 to 4 weeks and should not exceed 60 mg/kg/day ( 2.4 ) Conversion to Monotherapy for Patients (Aged 4-16 Years): Maximum increment of 10 mg/kg/day at weekly intervals, concomitant antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) can be completely withdrawn over 3 to 6 weeks ( 2.5 ) Initiation of Monotherapy for Patients (Aged 4-16 Years): Increments of 5 mg/kg/day every third day ( 2.6 ) 2.1 Adjunctive Therapy for Adults Initiate TRILEPTAL with a dose of 600 mg/day, given twice a day. If clinically indicated, the dose may be increased by a maximum of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals; the maximum recommended daily dose is 1200 mg/day. Daily doses above 1200 mg/day show somewhat greater effectiveness in controlled trials, but most patients were not able to tolerate the 2400 mg/day dose, primarily because of central nervous (CNS) effects. Dosage adjustment is recommended with concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 enzyme inducers or UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) inducers, which include certain antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) [ see Drug Interactions (7.1, 7.2) ]. 2.2 Conversion to Monotherapy for Adults Patients receiving concomitant AEDs may be converted to monotherapy by initiating treatment with TRILEPTAL at 600 mg/day (given in a twice a day regimen) while simultaneously initiating the reduction of the dose of the concomitant AEDs. The concomitant AEDs should be completely withdrawn over 3 to 6 weeks, while the maximum dose of TRILEPTAL should be reached in about 2 to 4 weeks. TRILEPTAL may be increased as clinically indicated by a maximum increment of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals to achieve the maximum recommended daily dose of 2400 mg/day. A daily dose of 1200 mg/day has been shown in one study to be effective in patients in whom monotherapy has been initiated with TRILEPTAL. Patients should be observed closely during this transition phase. 2.3 Initiation of Monotherapy for Adults Patients not currently being treated with AEDs may have monotherapy initiated with TRILEPTAL. In these patients, initiate TRILEPTAL at a dose of 600 mg/day (given twice a day); the dose should be increased by 300 mg/day every third day to a dose of 1200 mg/day. Controlled trials in these patients examined the effectiveness of a 1200 mg/day dose; a dose of 2400 mg/day has been shown to be effective in patients converted from other AEDs to TRILEPTAL monotherapy (see above). 2.4 Adjunctive Therapy for Pediatric Patients (Aged 2-16 Years) In pediatric patients aged 4-16 years, initiate TRILEPTAL at a daily dose of 8 to 10 mg/kg generally not to exceed 600 mg/day, given twice a day. The target maintenance dose of TRILEPTAL should be achieved over 2 weeks, and is dependent upon patient weight, according to the following chart: 20 to 29 kg-900 mg/day 29.1 to 39 kg-1200 mg/day 39 kg-1800 mg/day In the clinical trial, in which the intention was to reach th …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Film-coated Tablets: 150 mg: pale grey-green, ovaloid, slightly biconvex, scored on both sides. Imprinted with “T/D” on one side and “C/G” on the other side. 300 mg: yellow, ovaloid, slightly biconvex, scored on both sides. Imprinted with “TE/TE” on one side and “CG/CG” on the other side. 600 mg: light pink, ovaloid, slightly biconvex, scored on both sides. Imprinted with “TF/TF” on one side and “CG/CG” on the other side. Oral Suspension: 300 mg/5 mL (60 mg/mL): off-white to slightly brown or slightly red suspension. Film-coated tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg and 600 mg ( 3 ) Oral suspension: 300 mg/5 mL (60 mg/mL) ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS TRILEPTAL is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to oxcarbazepine or to any of its components, or to eslicarbazepine acetate [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3) ]. Known hypersensitivity to oxcarbazepine or to any of its components, or to eslicarbazepine acetate ( 4 , 5.2 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Hyponatremia: Monitor serum sodium levels ( 5.1 ) Cross Hypersensitivity Reaction to Carbamazepine: Discontinue immediately if hypersensitivity occurs ( 5.3 ) Serious Dermatological Reactions: If occurs, consider discontinuation ( 5.4 ) Suicidal Behavior and Ideation: Monitor for suicidal thoughts/behavior ( 5.5 ) Withdrawal of AEDs: Withdraw TRILEPTAL gradually ( 5.6 ) Cognitive/Neuropsychiatric Adverse Reactions: May cause cognitive dysfunction, somnolence, and coordination abnormalities. Use caution when operating machinery ( 5.7 ) Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multi-Organ Hypersensitivity: Monitor and discontinue if another cause cannot be established ( 5.8 ) Hematologic Events: Consider discontinuing ( 5.9 ) Seizure Control During Pregnancy: Active metabolite may decrease ( 5.10 ) Risk of Seizure Aggravation: Discontinue if occurs ( 5.11 ) 5.1 Hyponatremia Clinically significant hyponatremia (sodium < 125 mmol/L) can develop during TRILEPTAL use. In the 14 controlled epilepsy studies, 2.5% of TRILEPTAL-treated patients (38/1524) had a sodium of less than 125 mmol/L at some point during treatment, compared to no such patients assigned placebo or active control (carbamazepine and phenobarbital for adjunctive and monotherapy substitution studies, and phenytoin and valproate for the monotherapy initiation studies). Clinically significant hyponatremia generally occurred during the first 3 months of treatment with TRILEPTAL, although there were patients who first developed a serum sodium < 125 mmol/L more than 1 year after initiation of therapy. Most patients who developed hyponatremia were asymptomatic, but patients in the clinical trials were frequently monitored and some had their TRILEPTAL dose reduced, discontinued, or had their fluid intake restricted for hyponatremia. Whether or not these maneuvers prevented the occurrence of more severe events is unknown. Cases of symptomatic hyponatremia and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) have been reported during postmarketing use. In clinical trials, patients whose treatment with TRILEPTAL was discontinued due to hyponatremia generally experienced normalization of serum sodium within a few days without additional treatment. Measurement of serum sodium levels should be considered for patients during maintenance treatment with TRILEPTAL, particularly if the patient is receiving other medications known to decrease serum sodium levels (e.g., drugs associated with inappropriate ADH secretion), or if symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia develop (e.g., nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, or increase in seizure frequency or severity). 5.2 Anaphylactic Reactions and Angioedema Rare cases of anaphylaxis and angioedema involving the larynx, glottis, lips and eyelids have been reported in patients after taking the first or subsequent doses of TRILEPTAL. Angioedema associated with laryngeal edema can be fatal. If a patient develops any of these reactions after treatment with TRILEPTAL, the drug should be discontinued and an alternative treatment started. These patients should not be rechallenged with the drug [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. 5.3 Cross Hypersensitivity Reaction to Carbamazepine Approximately 25% to 30% of patients who have had hypersensitivity reactions to carbamazepine will experience hypersensitivity reactions with TRILEPTAL. For this reason, patients should be specifically questioned about any prior experience with carbamazepine, and patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to carbamazepine should ordinarily be treated with TRILEPTAL only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. If signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity develop, TRILEPTAL should be discontinued immediately [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.8) ]. 5.4 Serious Dermatological Reactions Serious dermatological reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJ …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Anaphylactic Reactions and Angioedema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Cross Hypersensitivity Reaction to Carbamazepine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Serious Dermatological Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [see Warnings and Precautions (5. 5 )] Cognitive/Neuropsychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5. 7 )] Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multi-Organ Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5. 8 )] Hematologic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5. 9 )] The most common (≥ 10% more than placebo for adjunctive or low dose for monotherapy) adverse reactions in adults and pediatrics were: dizziness, somnolence, diplopia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, ataxia, abnormal vision, headache, nystagmus, tremor, and abnormal gait ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation at 1-888-669-6682 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Most Common Adverse Reactions in All Clinical Studies Adjunctive Therapy/Monotherapy in Adults Previously Treated With Other AEDs The most common (≥ 10% more than placebo for adjunctive or low dose for monotherapy) adverse reactions with TRILEPTAL: dizziness, somnolence, diplopia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, ataxia, abnormal vision, headache, nystagmus tremor, and abnormal gait. Approximately 23% of these 1537 adult patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly associated with discontinuation were: dizziness (6.4%), diplopia (5.9%), ataxia (5.2%), vomiting (5.1%), nausea (4.9%), somnolence (3.8%), headache (2.9%), fatigue (2.1%), abnormal vision (2.1%), tremor (1.8%), abnormal gait (1.7%), rash (1.4%), and hyponatremia (1.0%). Monotherapy in Adults Not Previously Treated With O ther AEDs The most common (≥ 5%) adverse reactions with TRILEPTAL in these patients were similar to those in previously treated patients. Approximately 9% of these 295 adult patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly associated with discontinuation were: dizziness (1.7%), nausea (1.7%), rash (1.7%), and headache (1.4%). Adjunctive Therapy/Monotherapy in Pediatric Patients 4 Years Old and Above Previously Treated With O ther AEDs The most common (≥ 5%) adverse reactions with TRILEPTAL in these patients were similar to those seen in adults. Approximately 11% of these 456 pediatric patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly associated with discontinuation were: somnolence (2.4%), vomiting (2.0%), ataxia (1.8%), diplopia (1.3%), dizziness (1.3%), fatigue (1.1%), and nystagmus (1.1%). Monotherapy in Pediatric Patients 4 Years Old and Above Not Previously Treated With O ther AEDs The most common (≥ 5%) adverse reactions with TRILEPTAL in these patients were similar to those in adults. Approximately 9.2% of 152 pediatric patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly associated (≥ 1%) with discontinuation were rash (5.3%) and maculopapular rash (1.3%). Adjunctive Therapy/Monotherapy in Pediatric Patients 1 Month to < 4 Years Old Previously Treated or Not Previously Treated with O ther AEDs: The most common (≥ 5%) adverse reactions with TRILEPTAL in these patients were similar to those seen in older children and adults, except for infections and infestations which were more frequently seen in these younger children. A …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Phenytoin: Increased phenytoin levels. Reduced dose of phenytoin may be required ( 7.1 ) Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, and Phenobarbital: Decreased plasma levels of MHD (the active metabolite). Dose adjustments may be necessary ( 7.1 ) Oral Contraceptive: TRILEPTAL may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives ( 7.3 ) 7.1 Effect of TRILEPTAL on Other Drugs Phenytoin levels have been shown to increase with concomitant use of TRILEPTAL at doses greater than 1200 mg/day [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Therefore, it is recommended that the plasma levels of phenytoin be monitored during the period of TRILEPTAL titration and dosage modification. A decrease in the dose of phenytoin may be required. 7.2 Effect of Other Drugs on TRILEPTAL Strong inducers of cytochrome P450 enzymes and/or inducers of UGT (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin and phenobarbital) have been shown to decrease the plasma/serum levels of MHD, the active metabolite of TRILEPTAL (25% to 49%) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . If TRILEPTAL and strong CYP3A4 inducers, or UGT inducers are administered concurrently, it is recommended that the plasma levels of MHD be monitored during the period of TRILEPTAL titration. Dose adjustment of TRILEPTAL may be required after initiation, dosage modification, or discontinuation of such inducers. 7.3 Hormonal Contraceptives Concurrent use of TRILEPTAL with hormonal contraceptives may render these contraceptives less effective [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Studies with other oral or implant contraceptives have not been conducted.

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: May cause fetal harm ( 8.1) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to AEDs, such as TRILEPTAL, during pregnancy. Encourage women who are taking TRILEPTAL during pregnancy to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334 or visiting http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org/. Risk Summary Although TRILEPTAL is closely related structurally to carbamazepine, which is considered to be teratogenic in humans, available human data from published literature and ongoing pregnancy registry studies on use of oxcarbazepine during pregnancy have not demonstrated an increased prevalence of major congenital malformations with first trimester exposure. However, all published studies reviewed have important methodological limitations, including unmeasured confounding and a small number of exposed cases ( see Data ). There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with partial onset seizures ( see Clinical Considerations ). There are no data on the risks associated with the use of TRILEPTAL and miscarriage or other adverse maternal outcomes. Increased incidences of fetal structural abnormalities and other manifestations of developmental toxicity (embryolethality, growth retardation) were observed in the offspring of animals treated with either oxcarbazepine or its active 10-hydroxy metabolite (MHD) during pregnancy at doses similar to the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD). In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated Maternal and/or Embryofetal Risk Epilepsy, with or without exposure to antiepileptic drugs, has been associated with several adverse outcomes during pregnancy, including preeclampsia, preterm labor, antepartum and postpartum hemorrhage, placental abruption, poor fetal growth, prematurity, fetal death, and maternal mortality. The risk of maternal or fetal injury may be greatest for patients with untreated or poorly controlled convulsive seizures. Women with epilepsy who become pregnant should not abruptly discontinue antiepileptic drugs, including TRILEPTAL, due to the risk of status epilepticus or severe seizures, which may be life-threatening [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)] . Maternal Adverse Reactions An increase in seizure frequency may occur during pregnancy because of altered levels of the active metabolite of oxcarbazepine. Monitor patients carefully during pregnancy and through the postpartum period [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] . Data Human Data Data from a published retrospective cohort study and ongoing pregnancy registry studies on the use of oxcarbazepine during pregnancy have not demonstrated an increased prevalence of major congenital malformations with first trimester exposure. A retrospective cohort study conducted in Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) from 1996-2020 found that there was no increased prevalence of major congenital malformations when pregnancies exposed to oxcarbazepine during the first trimester were compared to pregnancies exposed to lamotrigine (adjusted risk ratio =1.09; 95% CI 0.83 to 1.44; n pregnancies exposed to oxcarbazepine= 1,313, n exposed cases = 58). In an ongoing pregnancy registry that included data from over 40 countries from 1999 to 2022 and 443 pregnancies exposed to oxcarbazepine, oxcarbazepine exposure during the first trimester was not associated with major congenital malformations (adjusted odds ratio =1.09; 95% CI 0.56 to 2.13, n exposed cases = 10). However, there are important methodological limitations of these studies including unmeasured confounding factors and a small number of exp …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action The pharmacological activity of TRILEPTAL is primarily exerted through the 10-monohydroxy metabolite (MHD) of oxcarbazepine [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. The precise mechanism by which oxcarbazepine and MHD exert their anti-seizure effect is unknown; however, in vitro electrophysiological studies indicate that they produce blockade of voltage-sensitive sodium channels, resulting in stabilization of hyperexcited neural membranes, inhibition of repetitive neuronal firing, and diminution of propagation of synaptic impulses. These actions are thought to be important in the prevention of seizure spread in the intact brain. In addition, increased potassium conductance and modulation of high-voltage activated calcium channels may contribute to the anticonvulsant effects of the drug. No significant interactions of oxcarbazepine or MHD with brain neurotransmitter or modulator receptor sites have been demonstrated.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION TRILEPTAL is an AED available as 150 mg, 300 mg, and 600 mg film-coated tablets for oral administration. TRILEPTAL is also available as a 300 mg/5 mL (60 mg/mL) oral suspension. Oxcarbazepine is 10,11-Dihydro-10-oxo-5 H -dibenz[b, f ]azepine-5-carboxamide, and its structural formula is: Oxcarbazepine is a white to faintly orange crystalline powder. It is slightly soluble in chloroform, dichloromethane, acetone, and methanol and practically insoluble in ethanol, ether and water. Its molecular weight is 252.27 g/mol. TRILEPTAL film-coated tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, talc, and titanium dioxide. TRILEPTAL oral suspension contains the following inactive ingredients: ascorbic acid; dispersible cellulose; ethanol; macrogol stearate; methyl parahydroxybenzoate; propylene glycol; propyl parahydroxybenzoate; purified water; sodium saccharin; sorbic acid; sorbitol; yellow-plum-lemon aroma. Oxcarbazepine structural formula.

10 OVERDOSAGE 10.1 Human Overdose Experience Isolated cases of overdose with TRILEPTAL have been reported. The maximum dose taken was approximately 48,000 mg. All patients recovered with symptomatic treatment. Nausea, vomiting, somnolence, aggression, agitation, hypotension, and tremor each occurred in more than one patient. Coma, confusional state, convulsion, dyscoordination, depressed level of consciousness, diplopia, dizziness, dyskinesia, dyspnea, QT prolongation, headache, miosis, nystagmus, overdose, decreased urine output, and blurred vision also occurred. 10.2 Treatment and Management There is no specific antidote. Symptomatic and supportive treatment should be administered as appropriate. Removal of the drug by gastric lavage and/or inactivation by administering activated charcoal should be considered.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Tablets 150 mg Film-Coated Tablets: pale grey-green, ovaloid, slightly biconvex, scored on both sides. Imprinted with “T/D” on one side and “C/G” on the other side. Bottle of 100............................................................................................................NDC 0078-0456-05 Unit Dose (blister pack) Box of 100 (strips of 10)..............................................................................................NDC 0078-0456-35 300 mg Film-Coated Tablets: yellow, ovaloid, slightly biconvex, scored on both sides. Imprinted with “TE/TE” on one side and “CG/CG” on the other side. Bottle of 100............................................................................................................NDC 0078-0337-05 Unit Dose (blister pack) Box of 100 (strips of 10).............................................................................................NDC 0078-0337-06 600 mg Film-Coated Tablets: light pink, ovaloid, slightly biconvex, scored on both sides. Imprinted with “TF/TF” on one side and “CG/CG” on the other side. Bottle of 100............................................................................................................NDC 0078-0457-05 Unit Dose (blister pack) Box of 100 (strips of 10).............................................................................................NDC 0078-0457-35 Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in tight container (USP). Suspension 300 mg/5 mL (60 mg/mL) Oral Suspension: off-white to slightly brown or slightly red suspension. Available in amber glass bottles containing 250 mL of oral suspension. Supplied with a 10 mL dosing syringe and press-in bottle adapter. Bottle containing 250 mL of oral suspension.....................................................................NDC 0078-0357-52 Store TRILEPTAL oral suspension in the original container. Shake well before using. Use within 7 weeks of first opening the bottle. Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
31,341
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: OXCARBAZEPINE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0078-0337-05 0078-0337 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0078-0337-05) January 30, 2000
0078-0337-06 0078-0337 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 BOX, UNIT-DOSE (0078-0337-06) / 1 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BLISTER PACK (0078-0337-61) January 30, 2000
0078-0456-05 0078-0456 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0078-0456-05) January 30, 2000
0078-0456-35 0078-0456 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 BOX, UNIT-DOSE (0078-0456-35) / 1 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BLISTER PACK (0078-0456-61) January 30, 2000
0078-0457-05 0078-0457 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0078-0457-05) January 30, 2000
0078-0457-35 0078-0457 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 BOX, UNIT-DOSE (0078-0457-35) / 1 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BLISTER PACK (0078-0457-61) January 30, 2000
0078-0337 0078-0337 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation — January 30, 2000
0078-0456 0078-0456 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation — January 30, 2000
0078-0457 0078-0457 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation — January 30, 2000

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.