Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

TIAGABINE - ORAL

(tie-GAB-een)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Gabitril

Uses

This medication is used to control certain types of seizures (epilepsy).

How To Use

Use exactly as directed by mouth with food, usually beginning at 4 mg once daily, and usually in addition to other anti-epilepsy drugs. The dose will be increased based on age and medical condition, up to 2 to 4 times daily. Do not interrupt or discontinue treatment without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. If told to stop this medication, it should be discontinued gradually.

Side Effects

Dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, shakiness, trouble sleeping, nausea, diarrhea or vomiting may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Report promptly any: difficulty breathing. Unlikely but report promptly: mental/mood changes, rash, easy bruising or bleeding, stomach pain, speech problems, unsteadiness, fainting, tingling hands or feet. Very unlikely but report promptly: bloody or black/tarry stools, chest pain, eye problems, persistent sore throat or fever. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: any allergies (especially drug allergies), liver disease. Limit alcohol intake, as it may enhance certain side effects of this medication. Since this drug may cause drowsiness or dizziness, use caution if operating machinery or performing hazardous tasks. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially: drugs for sleep (e.g., triazolam), other anti-seizure drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital or primidone), sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety medications (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness; confusion; weakness; difficulty speaking; behavioral, emotional, or mood changes; seizures; and loss of consciousness.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Report any increase in the number of seizures or changes in seizure symptoms. Laboratory tests may be done to monitor treatment.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).