Drug
Vigabatrin
Pronounced
"vye-GA-ba-trin"
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Drowsiness, difficulty feeding, or restlessness may occur. Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, or weight gain may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell the doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because the doctor has judged that the benefit to your child is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
In adults, this medication may cause low red blood cell count (anemia) or swelling. Tell the doctor right away if you notice rapid breathing, pale skin, fast heartbeat, or swelling of the ankles/feet in your child.
In adults, a small number of people who take anticonvulsants for any condition (such as seizure, bipolar disorder, pain) may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Talk to your doctor for more details.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact the doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call the doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call the doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before giving vigabatrin, tell the doctor or pharmacist if your child is allergic to it; or if they have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to the pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell the doctor or pharmacist your child's medical history, especially of: eye problems (such as visual field defect, glaucoma, macular degeneration, optic nerve problem), kidney disease.
MRI tests of the brain in children have shown changes after they are given vigabatrin. It is not known if these changes are harmful. Consult the doctor for more details. If your child is going to have an MRI test, tell testing personnel that your child is using this medication.
Before having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist about all the products your child uses (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This medication is not usually used by adults. It is unlikely to be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult the doctor if you have any questions about this medication.
Medical Alert
Your child's condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).