Sabril

Common Name: vigabatrin

How does Sabril work?

Vigabatrin belongs to the class of medications called anticonvulsants. It is used for the management and treatment of seizures, often in combination with other anti-seizure medications when other medications have not been beneficial. It is thought that this medication works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, making seizures less likely to occur. Vigabatrin is also used for the treatment of infantile spasms (West syndrome). Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Sabril?

The recommended adult starting dose of vigabatrin is 1 gram (1,000 mg) daily. The recommended children's dose is based on body weight. Vigabatrin may be taken with or without food. The medication may be taken in tablet form or by using the powder (sachets) dissolved in 10 mL of either water, fruit juice, milk, or infant formula. Mix the powder just before you use it. The exact dosage should be measured and taken by use of an oral syringe. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that you take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking your medication abruptly. Discontinuation of your medication should take place gradually over a few weeks and only in consultation with your doctor. Always check that you have enough vigabatrin and that you do not run out of medication. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, and then continue as usual. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot, and continue as usual.

What form(s) does Sabril come in?

Sabril® is available in powder (sachets) and tablet form. Powder (sachets): Each sachet of white to off-white granular powder contains vigabatrin 0.5 g. Nonmedicinal ingredients: povidone. Tablets: Each white to off-white, film-coated, oval tablet, imprinted "SABRIL" on one side, contains vigabatrin 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, povidone, sodium starch glycolate, and titanium dioxide. This medication does not contain lactose.

What should I NOT take with Sabril?

Vigabatrin should not be used by: women who are or may be pregnant or who are breast-feeding anyone allergic to vigabatrin or any of the ingredients of the medication anyone who is currently taking medications which could be toxic to the retina of the eye

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Sabril?

Eye problems: A number of different types of eye problems have been reported for people taking vigabatrin often in combination with other anti-epileptic medications. The onset of problems has occurred from less than one month to over six years after start of treatment. The onset of symptoms tends to be reported most frequently within the first year of treatment. Eye examinations are recommended at the start of treatment with vigabatrin and should continue to take place every three months. Anyone taking this medication should report narrowing of the field of vision or loss of visual sharpness to their doctors and should be advised to promptly report any emerging visual problems. The use of vigabatrin should be stopped if eye problems occur unless the benefit of controlling seizures through continued treatment outweighs the risk of visual impairment. Kidney function: Vigabatrin passes from the body via the kidney. People with reduced kidney function should use this medication with caution. Medical conditions: People who have had psychiatric disorders or behavioural problems should use this medication with caution. Occupational hazards: People with uncontrolled epilepsy should not drive or operate potentially dangerous machinery. The most common side effects with vigabatrin are drowsiness and fatigue. People taking the medication are advised to avoid activities requiring mental alertness or physical coordination until they determine that vigabatrin does not affect them adversely. Sudden discontinuation of medication: As with other anti-epileptic medications, stopping vigabatrin suddenly may lead an increased number of seizures. If possible, it is recommended that the dose be reduced gradually over a period of two to four weeks. Pregnancy: Vigabatrin should not be used if you are pregnant. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, likely to become pregnant, or planning to become pregnant. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant during your treatment. Breast-feeding: Vigabatrin passes into breast milk in low concentrations. Women should not nurse while taking this medication.