zonisamide

Zonisamide is a sulfonamide anticonvulsant used primarily as adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults and children with epilepsy. It is chemically distinct from other antiepileptic drugs, classified as a 1,2-benzisoxazole derivative. The mechanism of action involves blocking voltage-gated sodium channels and T-type calcium channels, which suppresses abnormal neuronal firing associated with seizures. Zonisamide also acts as a weak carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and modulates GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission. Originally discovered by Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma in 1972, it was first launched in Japan (as Excegran) in 1989 and later marketed globally under various brand names[3][5][7].

Brand names

ZonegranZonisadeExcegran

Other names

zonisamide SRzonisamide extended-releasezonisamide sustained release