The U.S. FDA approved Vigabatrin for neurological disorders on August 21, 2009. Vigabatrin is an antiepileptic drug that belongs to the class of medicine called anticonvulsants.

Vigabatrin is used to treat various forms of epilepsy. It is used with the current medication to treat uncontrolled epilepsy. It is also used to manage infantile spasms (West's syndrome).

Take the Vigabatrin as your physician advises. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Typically, this medicine is taken orally. It is important to measure the correct dosage and mix it thoroughly before drinking. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

The most common side effects of Vigabatrin are tiredness, sleepiness, joint pain, headache, weight gain, tremor, numbness, tingling, pain, disturbance of concentration and memory, anemia, speech problems, and unusual hair loss. Serious side effects while taking Vigabatrin are visual changes, allergic reactions, restlessness, and significant sedation.

Do not take Vigabatrin if you are allergic to Vigabatrin or any of its ingredients.  Before starting the treatment, inform your physician have or have had depression or any other psychiatric illness in the past, if you have had kidney problems or any problems with the eyes.

 It is important to notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. This medicine might lead to decreased eyesight because of eye issues like retinal disorder, blurry vision, or conditions like optic atrophy or optic neuritis If you notice changes in your vision, it's important to contact an eye specialist for advice. 

Inform your doctor if you have any kidney-related disease before starting the treatment because it is unknown whether this medicine is safe for patients with kidney conditions. Follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Inform your doctor about any known allergies or medical conditions you have before receiving Vigabatrin. If you notice any unexpected or severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention. Inform your healthcare professional about any other medications or supplements you are consuming to avoid potential drug interactions. If you have any concerns regarding the treatment, consult your healthcare professional for information.

1. MA holder, electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on Jan 2021] [Accessed 26th August 2023],*7098692-v3.indd (medicines.org.uk)
2. Patheon, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Dec 2012] [Accessed on 26th August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/022006s006lbl.pdf
3. Roger J. Porter, Michael A. Rogawski, Antiseizure Drugs, Lange’s Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 409-439.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.