[Metabolic encephalopathy: oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)-induced hyponatremia]

A patient is described with metabolic encephalopathy which developed as a result of hyponatraemia induced by oxcarbazepine (OXC). The literature reveals that up to 80% of the patients in OXC therapy develop hyponatraemia. Elderly patients and patients receiving high doses of OXC are at particular risk in this respect. The majority of patients are asymptomatic and the hyponatraemic condition does not demand changes in treatment. Control of serum natrium levels prior to and during treatment with OXC is recommended, particularly when side-effects occur.