Products
Vigabatrin is commercially available as film-coated tablets and as a powder (Sabril). It has been approved in many countries since 1992.
Structure and properties
Vigabatrin (C6H11NO2, Mr = 129.2 g/mol) is structurally a GABA analog. It exists as a white powder that is readily soluble in water.
Effects
Vigabatrin (ATC N03AG04) has antiepileptic properties. It selectively and irreversibly inhibits the enzyme GABA transaminase (GABA-T), thereby inhibiting the breakdown of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. As a result, GABA concentrations increased.
Indication
For the treatment of certain manifestations of epilepsy: focal, partial seizures, infantile spasms (West syndrome).
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Medicines are taken once or twice daily before or after meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Idiopathic primary generalized epilepsy
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Vigabatrin is neither metabolized nor bound to proteins. Drug-drug interactions are therefore considered unlikely, unlike with older antiepileptic drugs. Decreases in phenytoin concentrations have been reported when combined with phenytoin.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include visual field disturbances (in one-third of patients) and visual disturbances, drowsiness, and fatigue. Other common adverse effects include central and psychiatric disturbances, weight gain, edema, nausea, and abdominal pain.
