VIGABATRIN

Vigabatrin is an anticonvulsant. It increases the amount of the chemical called gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) in the brain.

Indications

as adjunctive therapy for adults and pediatric patients 10 years of age and older with refractory complex partial seizures who have inadequately responded to several alternative treatments and for whom the potential benefits outweigh the risk of vision loss, infantile spasms 1 month to 2 years of age

Dosage

-Adults: Typically 1-3 grams per day, divided into two or three doses. The dosage is adjusted based on the individual patient's response and tolerance. -Children: Dosage is adjusted according to the child's weight and clinical condition.

Contra-Indications

-Complex partial seizures -Infantile spasms (West syndrome) -Refractory seizures in adults

Special Precautions

Monitoring of vision by an ophthalmic professional with expertise in visual field interpretation and the ability to perform dilated indirect ophthalmoscopy of the retina is required, Paediatric: Safety and efficacy in children less than 10 years not yet established Pregnancy: Category C Lactation: excreted in milk Elderly: Caution to be exercised in real impaired person

Side Effects

-Visual disturbances, including loss of peripheral vision. -Drowsiness or sedation. -Weight gain. -Behavioral changes. -Irritability or agitation. -Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting).

Drug Interactions

-May interact with other antiepileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) leading to altered efficacy or increased side effects. -Caution is advised when used with medications that affect the central nervous system (CNS depressants).