Drug
Vigabatrin
Pronounced
"vye-GAB-uh-trin"
Uses
Vigabatrin is used to treat babies, one month to 2 years old who have a condition known as infantile spasms. Vigabatrin has also been used in combination with other medications to treat seizure disorders (epilepsy). Vigabatrin decreases the number of seizures in adults and children who have not been able to control their seizures with other treatment. Vigabatrin is an anticonvulsant. It is thought to work by stopping the breakdown of a natural calming substance (GABA) in the brain.
Warning
Serious vision problems may occur while taking this medication and may be permanent even after you stop taking the medication. To prevent vision problems from getting worse, your doctor must find any eye problems as early as possible. Also, tell your doctor if you have a history of vision problems. It is very important that you have an eye exam before or within 4 weeks of starting this medication, then every 3 months thereafter while you are taking this medication. You should also have an eye exam 3 to 6 months after stopping this medication. Follow your doctor's directions carefully and keep all medical/eye/lab appointments. Tell your doctor right away if you have any changes in vision (such as loss of vision, blurred vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, eye pain).
To receive vigabatrin in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the REMS Program for this medication. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use sheet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking vigabatrin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Mix the contents of the packet with water as directed by the Instructions for Use sheet. Measure the dose using the supplied oral syringe. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Use the dose right after mixing. Do not mix in advance or store for future use. Discard any unused medication.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. Your doctor may direct you to take a low dose at first, gradually increasing the dose to lower the chance of side effects such as drowsiness and confusion. Your doctor will adjust your dose to find the best dose for you. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
For infantile spasms, tell the doctor if your infant's spasms get worse or do not get better within 2 to 4 weeks. For seizures, tell your doctor if your seizures get worse or do not get better within 3 months.