Vigabatrin - oral

Vigabatrin is used together with other medicines to treat epilepsy (also known as fits or seizures).

Take Vigabatrin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take Vigabatrin with or without food. Take it with plenty of water.

Vigabatrin is available as sachets or tablets.

If you are using the sachet, dissolve the contents in 10mL of water, fruit juice, infant formula or milk before taking. Drink the solution immediately after you dissolve it.

Vigabatrin must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Vigabatrin even when you feel better. Vigabatrin is not a cure and you may need to take it long-term to keep your seizures under control. Do not stop taking Vigabatrin unless instructed otherwise as stopping it suddenly may worsen your condition.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- kidney disease
- eyesight problems or eye disorders
- history of mood disorders or mental illness

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

For as long as you are being treated with Vigabatrin, you will need to have your eyes checked regularly. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.

Vigabatrin may cause dizziness, tiredness and drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Other side effects include any of the following: headache, tremors, weight gain, nausea, constipation, stomach pain, irritability, restlessness, nervousness, lack of attention and coordination, memory disturbances and swelling, numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet.

Let your doctor know if you experience:

- confusion and hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent)
- unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having thoughts of self harm)
- any changes or abnormalities in your eyesight e.g. visual field changes, blurred or double vision

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking other epilepsy medicines e.g.
carbamazepine, phenytoin or phenobarbitone.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.