Gabitril - Talk Medical

Generic Name: tiagabine

Brands: Gabitril

What is the most important information I should know about Gabitril?

· Do not stop taking Gabitril without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking Gabitril to prevent the seizures from recurring. Stopping Gabitril suddenly may result in increased seizure frequency. If the medication needs to be stopped, your doctor may need to lower the dosage gradually.

· Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.

· Gabitril may cause drowsiness, dizziness, decreased concentration, vision problems, or poor coordination. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform other hazardous activities until you know how Gabitril affects you. If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, decreased concentration, vision problems, or poor coordination, avoid these activities.

What is Gabitril?

· The exact way that Gabitril works is unknown. However, it is believed that it alters chemical impulses in the brain that cause seizures.

· Gabitril is used to control seizures.

· Gabitril may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Gabitril?

· Before taking Gabitril, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take this medication, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

· Gabitril is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Gabitril will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Gabitril without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant.

· It is not known whether Gabitril passes into breast milk. Do not take Gabitril without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Gabitril?

· Take Gabitril exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose of Gabitril with a full glass of water.

· Take Gabitril with food.

· It is important to take Gabitril regularly to get the most benefit.

· If treatment with Gabitril is stopped for any reason, contact your doctor before restarting the medication. A lower dose may be needed to prevent side effects from occurring.

· Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with Gabitril to monitor progress and side effects.

· Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.

· Store Gabitril at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical treatment if an overdose is suspected.

· Symptoms of a Gabitril overdose include drowsiness, slurred speech, poor coordination, confusion, and agitation.

What should I avoid while taking Gabitril?

· Do not drink alcohol while taking Gabitril. Alcohol may increase drowsiness or dizziness caused by Gabitril. Alcohol may also increase the risk of seizures.

What are the possible side effects of Gabitril?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Gabitril and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); ·increasing frequency or worsening of seizures; ·irregular back-and-forth movements of the eyes (nystagmus); ·weakness; or ·rash.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Gabitril and talk to your doctor if you experience ·dizziness, poor coordination, or drowsiness; ·nausea and vomiting; ·agitation or nervousness; or ·tremor.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Gabitril?

· Gabitril interacts with many of the other drugs used to treat seizures. Before taking Gabitril, tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking a combination of medications to treat seizures. Continue to take all medications prescribed to treat seizures exactly as directed.

· Gabitril may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Do not take other medications that may increase drowsiness without first talking to your doctor.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Gabitril or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Gabitril written for health professionals that you may read.

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