Drug
Vigabatrin
Pronounced
"vye-GA-ba-trin"
Uses
This medication is used to treat a certain type of seizure in children (infantile spasms). 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 your child stops taking the medication. To prevent vision problems from getting worse, the doctor must find any eye problems as early as possible. Also, tell the doctor if your child has a history of vision problems. It is very important that your child has an eye exam before or within 4 weeks of starting this medication, then every 3 months after that while taking this medication. Your child should also have an eye exam 3 to 6 months after stopping this medication. Follow the doctor's directions carefully and keep all medical/eye/lab appointments. Tell the doctor right away if your child is acting differently than normal or if you notice any changes in vision (such as loss of 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 the pharmacist before your child starts taking vigabatrin and each time you get a refill. If there are any questions, ask the doctor or pharmacist.
Give this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by the doctor, usually twice daily. Do not mix with water or other liquids when measuring the dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because your child may not get the correct dose. The dosage is based on your child's medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
To reduce your child's risk of side effects, the doctor may direct your child to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase the dose. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
Give this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help remember, give it at the same times each day.
Do not increase your child's dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. The condition will not improve any faster, and your child's risk of side effects will increase.
Do not stop giving this medication without consulting the doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. The dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Tell the doctor if your child's seizures get worse or do not get better within 2 to 4 weeks.