Ethosuximide
Zarontin (ethosuximide) is an anti-epileptic medication primarily used to treat absence seizures (petit mal seizures) in both children and adults with epilepsy. It works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes these specific seizure types, and may be prescribed alone or in combination with other anti-seizure medications.
Zarontin is a brand-name anti-epileptic drug used to control absence seizures by reducing abnormal brain electrical activity.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202981
- Generic
- Zarontin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of absence seizures (petit mal epilepsy) in children and adults. May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other anti-epileptic medications for epilepsy management.
Ethosuximide works by blocking T-type calcium channels in thalamic neurons, which helps suppress the abnormal burst-firing patterns responsible for absence seizures. It is selective for absence seizures and does not address other seizure types.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, and stomach upset. Requires regular monitoring including blood counts as rare serious effects can occur. Should not be stopped abruptly. Only effective against absence seizures—not for other seizure types. May interact with other anti-epileptic drugs.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy