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Vigabatrin


  • Vigabatrin can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
  • Do not stop taking vigabatrin without speaking to your doctor first. Your doctor will need to reduce the dose you are taking gradually.
  • Important: If you experience any problems with your eyes or vision contact your doctor as soon as possible.

About vigabatrin

Type of medicine Antiepileptic
Used for Epilepsy
Infantile spasms
Also called Sabril
Available as Tablets
Powder

Vigabatrin works by reducing the break down of a chemical in the brain which affects electrical activity. In people with epilepsy, this reduces the likelihood of seizures (fits) occurring.

Before taking vigabatrin

Before taking vigabatrin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have bad eyesight
  • If you suffer from kidney problems
  • If you have ever suffered from depression or psychosis (mental health problems)
  • If you suffer from absence seizures (a form of epilepsy where the person seems to stare into space for a period of time)

How to take vigabatrin

  • Dissolve vigabatrin powder in water or a soft drink before taking.
  • Do not stop taking vigabatrin without speaking to your doctor first. Your doctor will need to reduce the dose you are taking gradually.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be monitored.
  • Vigabatrin can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
  • While you are taking vigabatrin, there is a small risk that you may develop mood changes, distressing thoughts and feelings about suicide. If this happens, tell your doctor straight away.

Can vigabatrin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Drowsiness, dizziness, lack of concentration, blurred vision Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. Avoid alcohol; it will increase any feelings of drowsiness
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.

Other side effects include weakness, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, muscle twitching, unsteadiness, shakiness, feeling sick, pins and needles, memory problems, weight gain or shakiness, confusion.

Important: If you experience any problems with your eyes or vision contact your doctor as soon as possible.

How to store vigabatrin

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008 DocID:
1510		 DocRef:
dils2981		 Last Updated:
5 Feb 2007		 Date of Next Review:
4 Feb 2009		 Version:
24
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PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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