What should I know about taking felbamate before taking it?

You should know that felbamate may cause a decrease in white and red blood cell counts and that may lead to infection or illness. Felbamate can also cause liver damage, so if you have stomach pain or jaundice you should see your doctor immediately. Felbamate has been linked with mood or behavior changes, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Do not suddenly stop taking felbamate, as your seizures can worsen. People with liver disease or a history of blood disorders (for example, anemia) should not take felbamate. People with kidney disease or who are pregnant or nursing should take felbamate with caution, and only after talking with their doctor. Felbamate can interact with other medications, including other seizure medications, so you should tell your doctor about all of the medications you take. Interactions are known to occur with carbamazepine, clopidogrel, divalproex, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin and valproic acid.