VIGABATRIN

Vigabatrin is an anticonvulsant that works by stopping the breakdown of a natural calming substance (GABA) in the brain.

Uses

This medication is used in combination with other medications to control certain types of seizures in adults and children 10 years of age or older whose seizures were not controlled by several other medications. Vigabatrin powder is used to control infantile spasms (a type of seizure that babies and children can have) in babies 1 month to 2 years of age.

Warnings

Vigabatrin may cause permanent vision loss in a high percentage of patients. This effect may occur within weeks or sooner after starting treatment. It may also occur after months or years. The risk may increase with higher doses and prolonged use, but it may occur with any dose or length of use. Vision loss may continue to worsen after stopping vigabatrin.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

Sleepiness
Dizziness
Uncontrollable Shaking of a Part of the Body
Weakness
Joint or Muscle Pain
Problems Walking or Feeling Uncoordinated
Memory Problems and not Thinking Clearly
Weight Gain
Swelling of The Hands, Feet, Ankles, or Lower Legs
Pain, Burning, or Tingling in the Hands or Feet
Fever
Irritability
Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Stomach Pain
Heartburn
Severely Painful Cramps During Menstrual Period

Notify your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen.

Serious side effects may include:

Confusion
Tiredness
Pale Skin
Fast Heartbeat
Difficulty Breathing
Hives
Itching

Precautions

Precautions

Before using Vigabatrin tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following:

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
If you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
If you have vision problems, kidney problems, or certain blood problems (eg, anemia, porphyria)
If you have a history of depression, other mental or mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or actions

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. Tell your doctor all the products you use including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products.

Some products may interact with this drug including:

Drugs that can Harm the Eye (retinotoxic drugs such as Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine, Phenothiazines including thioridazine)
Orlistat

Overdose & Brands

Call emergency hotline if someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

Drowsiness
Loss of Consciousness

Available brand/s:

Vigabatrin