Generic Name: Tiagabine (ti-AG-a-bin)

Used to Treat: epilepsy

Seizure Type: Partial seizures (all types)

Forms of the medicine:
Pill

Dosing:
32 mg - 56 mg

General Info:
What is Gabitril?
Gabitril (GAB-ih-tril) is the brand name for the seizure medicine tiagabine (tie-AG-ah-bean). Gabitril is used in the treatment of partial seizures as add-on therapy in adults and children 12 years and older. Gabitril is an antiepilepsy agent. The exact way Gabitril works is by increasing the amount of a chemical in the nerve terminals that helps to inhibit the hyperexcitable nature of cells that generate epileptic activity. Gabitril is available in tablet form, usually in 2, 4, 12, and 16 milligrams.

How do I take Gabitril?
Take this medication exactly as it is prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts or longer than recommended by your doctor. Do not change your dosage without your doctor's advice. Tell your doctor if the medication does not seem to work in treating your condition.

Gabitril should be taken twice or four times per day with food. Dosing amounts and frequency of dosing will be decided by the treating physician. Dosing will usually start with about 4 milligrams per day and will likely be increased over time.

What if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take an extra dose, unless prescribed by your doctor.

What if I experience side effects?
Various side effects may occur in taking this medicine. Most side effects are not serious and may disappear naturally. Call your doctor if you have any questions concerning your possible side effects. However, do not stop taking your medication without advice from your doctor. They will discuss and recommend possible options. At times it is necessary to continue taking your medication despite these side effects.

There are other side effects that may be serious and indicate that your body is not tolerating the drug properly. Call a doctor right away if these side effects become severe or cause considerable problems in your daily functions. If you experience a change in seizures, severe rash, or allergic reaction contact your doctor immediately. If you experience persistent upset stomach, vomiting, or loss of appetite contact your doctor immediately.

Contact your physician immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing / swallowing, etc)
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty walking
• Unusual sensations (i.e. burning, tingling, numbness)
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Mood swings
• Persistent headaches

Storage
Keep this medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store your prescription at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (i.e. not the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Recommendation for women
Safety in pregnancy has not been established. It is known that women taking antiepileptic drugs have a higher incidence of birth defects than women who are not. Women who are taking this medication and who wish to become pregnant should discuss treatment options with their physicians before the pregnancy begins. Gabitril is passed into breast milk and it is not known whether the medication will affect a nursing infant. Do not take Gabitril without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Other helpful information
Dilantin, Tegretol, Mysoline and Phenobarbital can decrease Gabitril levels. Possible contraindications to the use of Gabitril are having a history of allergic reactions to tiagabine. Always be sure to provide your doctor with a full medical history including any dietary or herbal supplements you may be taking as well as other medications.

Side Effects