Description
Gabitril is a medication prescribed to treat focal seizure disorders.
Focal seizures are seizures that start in one part of the brain and spread to other regions. Some people experience "fully aware focal seizures" and are still conscious and aware of having a seizure while it's happening (simple partial seizure). Others may lose consciousness or not be aware of the seizure, called a complex partial seizure.
Symptoms may include muscle contractions, eye movements, stomach pain, numbness, or contractions on one side of the body.
Gabitril works by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA suppresses signals in nerve cells, including the type of signals that cause seizures.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C20H25NO2S2 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
90–95% |
Legal status |
Rx only |
Chemical Name |
Tiagabine |
Elimination half-life |
5–8 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
5mg,10mg |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Gabitril
|
Protein binding |
96% |
PubChem CID |
60648 |
MedlinePlus |
a698014 |
ChEBI |
9586 |
ATC code |
N03AG06 |
DrugBank |
DB00906 |
KEGG |
D08588
|
Routes of administration |
Oral (tablets) |
Directions
Take Gabitril exactly as directed by your doctor.
The starting Gabitril dosage is typically 4 mg by mouth once daily. Your doctor may increase the dosage by 4-8 mg each week. The maximum daily dosage is 56 mg divided two to four times throughout the day.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Gabitril is tiagabine.
Interactions
Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
- Alcohol
- Apalutamide
- Azelastine
- Brimonidine
- Bromperidol
- Buprenorphine
- Cannabinoid-Containing Products
- Carbamazepine
- Chlormethiazole
- CNS Depressants
- Codeine
- Doxylamine
- Enzalutamide
- Erdafitinib
- Fentanyl
- Flunitrazepam
- Fosphenytoin
- Hydrocodone
- Hydromorphone
- Hydroxyzine
- Kava kava
- Lumacaftor
- Lumacaftor-ivacaftor
- Magnesium Sulfate
- Mefloquine
- Metoclopramide
- Mitotane
- Morphine
- Orlistat
- Orphenadrine
- Oxomemazine
- Oxycodone
- Oxymorphone
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Primidone
- Rifampin (rifampicin)
- Suvorexant
- Thalidomide
- Tocilizumab
The above medications have the potential to interact with Gabitril.
Cautions
Gabitril can cause CNS depression, so use caution if you are mixing with other CNS depressants.
Do not stop Gabitril without talking with your doctor. Doing so can increase the risk of seizures.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of precautions that apply to you.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions to Gabitril medication may include:
- Accidental injury
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Infection
- Lack of concentration
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Tremor
- Weakness
References
- Gabitril [package insert]. Frazer, PA: Cephalon; 2009.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 5481