Gabitril (Tiagabine) for Epilepsy

Overview
Gabitril is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of partial seizures in people with epilepsy who are 12 years and older. Gabitril is usually prescribed in addition to other types of seizure medication. Gabitril is also known by its drug name, tiagabine.

Gabitril is an anticonvulsant, or drug that is used to control seizures. It is believed that Gabitril works in cases of epilepsy by inhibiting nerve signals.

How do I take it?
Gabitril is taken orally as a tablet one to four times a day with food. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of Gabitril and gradually increase the dosage.

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you are certain you understand how Gabitril affects you.

Alcohol can intensify some side effects of Gabitril.

Do not stop taking Gabitril suddenly. If you decide to stop taking Gabitril, consult your physician for a plan to taper off gradually.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Gabitril.

Side effects
Older adults may experience some side effects of Gabitril more intensely than other people.

Common side effects of Gabitril include sleepiness, dizziness, fatigue, tremor, abdominal pain, nervousness, nausea, increased appetite, speech problems, trouble concentrating, unusual thoughts, depression, and irritability.

Serious side effects of Gabitril may include suicidal thoughts, severe weakness, severe confusion, vision changes, sores on the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, eyelids, or nose, uncontrollable shaking, and sensations of pain, numbness, or burning in the extremities. Call your doctor if you experience any of these side effects while taking Gabitril.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Gabitril — RxList
www.rxlist.com/gabitril-drug.htm

Tiagabine — MedlinePlus
www.medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698014.html