Gabitril (Tiagabine)

Do’s

• Before starting Gabitril, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist and review it each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your healthcare provider.
• Take Gabitril by mouth with food as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Your healthcare provider may advise you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase it to reduce the risk of side effects. 
• Typically, during the first week of treatment, Gabitril is taken once a day. Subsequently, your healthcare provider may increase your dose to 2 to 4 times daily. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• The dosage of Gabitril is determined based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Inform your healthcare provider about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
• Take this medication regularly at the same times each day to derive the most benefit from it. This can help you remember to take it consistently.
• If you have stopped taking this medication for several days, consult with your healthcare provider about how to restart it. You may need to begin with a low dose and gradually increase your dose again.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your seizures worsen.

Don’ts

• Gabitril is not usually used by itself. Do not discontinue your other anti-seizure medication unless your healthcare provider specifically advises you to do so.
• Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping this drug can worsen certain conditions, such as seizures. If your healthcare provider advises stopping the medication, your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Common Side Effects: 

• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Impaired concentration
• Speech or language problems
• Fatigue

Be cautious, especially when starting Gabitril, to ensure that these side effects do not interfere with activities such as driving or other potentially dangerous tasks.

Some individuals may experience more serious side effects. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Consult with a healthcare provider before taking Gabitril or any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Gabitril may cause harm to an unborn baby, and information about its use during breastfeeding is limited. Consult with a healthcare provider before using Gabitril during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the potential benefits of treatment should be carefully weighed against the potential risks.

The safety and efficacy of Gabitril have not been established for individuals under the age of 12 years. Additionally, caution should be exercised in elderly individuals who are at an increased risk of falls due to potential effects on psychomotor function and increased fall risk.

If a dose of Gabitril is missed, do not attempt to make up for the missed dose by increasing the next dose. In case of a suspected overdose, seek medical advice promptly.

This information is intended to provide a general overview and does not replace specific medical advice from a healthcare provider. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance regarding the use of Gabitril.