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 Taking vigabatrin (Sabril)
Dear Patient,
Your health care provider has prescribed vigabatrin for your seizures. This drug controls seizures by inhibiting an enzyme in the brain. The brand name of this drug is Sabril.
How you'll take vigabatrin
Take this drug twice a day. You may take it with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; don't crush or chew it.
What to do if you miss a dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed dose. Don't try to make up doses. Don't take more than two doses a day.
What to do about side effects
Notify your health care provider if you experience side effects to this medication.
Common: abnormal coordination, blurred vision, confusion, cough, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, double vision, fatigue, headache, irritability, impaired memory, joint pain, nausea, painful menstruation, sleepiness, sore throat, tremor, trouble walking, uncontrolled eye movement, weight gain.
Less common: abdominal discomfort or distention, abnormal behavior, abnormal dreams, anxiety, arm or leg pain, attention disturbance, chest pain, constipation, erectile dysfunction, fever, general aches and pains, increased appetite, insomnia, nervousness, rash, swelling of the hands and feet, thirst, and vomiting.
What you must know about other medications
There are drugs that could cause problems if you combine them with this drug. Phenytoin and clonazepam levels may become elevated when combined with this drug, causing adverse effects. Tell any health care provider who takes care of you that you're taking this drug.
Special directions
- This drug can cause severe, permanent eye damage. You'll need to have an eye examination before, every 3 months during, and 3 to 6 months after the drug is discontinued. Notify your health care provider immediately if you develop vision problems.
- Because this drug is dispensed through a special program, your health care provider will need to enroll you in this program, known as the SHARE program.
- Don't stop taking this drug if you're running low. Talk to your health care provider about a refill; the drug shouldn't be stopped suddenly. It should be tapered if it's to be discontinued.
- Don't drive or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
- Your health care provider may monitor various blood test results while you are on this drug.
Keep in mind
- There's a risk of suicidal thoughts when taking this drug. Be alert for these thoughts. Call your health care provider if you have any such thoughts or increased depression or anxiety.
- It's unknown how this drug could affect an unborn baby. You should use contraceptive measures while you're on this drug. If you should become pregnant while taking this drug, consult your health care provider.
- It's unknown how this drug could affect a nursing baby. The drug does enter breast milk; because of the potential for adverse effects, another method of feeding the baby should be used.
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