available over the counter: no

uses: control of certain types of seizures

mechanism of action: reduces activity parts of  central nervous system; suppresses irregular neuronal firing

side effects
* common: sedation, lethargy, nervousness, dizziness, thickened gums, growth of body and facial hair,
* less common: constipation, acne, rash
* serious: fever, sore throat, swollen glands, mouth sores or bleeding gums, easy bruising, weakness, confusion

concerns: do not stop medication abruptly;  taper, per physician over weeks