Primidone (By mouth)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to primidone or phenobarbital or if you have porphyria.

Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. .
Shake the oral liquid well just before each dose. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
Plan your doses so they are evenly spaced during the day. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about when to take this medicine.
This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.

Tell your doctor if you are also taking birth control pills.
Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you have kidney disease or a history of depression.
Mothers who are breastfeeding: The medicine will be in your breast milk. Stop breastfeeding if your baby becomes unusually tired or sleepy.
This medicine can increase depression and thoughts of suicide. Tell your doctor right away if you start to feel more depressed or have thoughts about hurting yourself.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Severe dizziness, sleepiness, or trouble walking
Thoughts of hurting yourself, depression, unusual changes in behavior

Last Updated: 1/27/2017