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.
Table of Contents
- Uses and How to Use
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Medication Interactions
- Dosage and Storage
- Medication Images
Pronounced: (vye-GA-ba-trin)
Vigabatrin Oral Uses
Vigabatrin is used to treat babies, one month to 2 years old who have a condition known as infantile spasms. Vigabatrin has also been used in combination with other medications to treat seizure disorders (epilepsy). Vigabatrin decreases the number of seizures in adults and children who have not been able to control their seizures with other treatment. Vigabatrin is an anticonvulsant. It is thought to work by stopping the breakdown of a natural calming substance (GABA) in the brain.
How To Use Vigabatrin Oral
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking vigabatrin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Mix the contents of the packet in a glass of water, and drink immediately after mixing. Do not mix in advance or store for future use. If the dose is less than a full packet, mix the entire contents of the packet in 10 milliliters of liquid. Mix well and measure the dose using a special measuring device. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Discard any unused medication. If you are using two packets, then mix the contents in 20 milliliters of liquid. If you are using three packets, then mix the contents in 30 milliliters of liquid. Each packet should have 500 milligrams of vigabatrin. If the packets you receive have more than 500 milligrams of vigabatrin, consult your pharmacist for how to mix this product.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to take a low dose at first, gradually increasing the dose to lower the chance of side effects such as drowsiness and confusion. Your doctor will adjust your dose to find the best dose for you. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. The usual maximum dose for adults is 3 grams a day.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Continue to take your other seizure medications unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Vigabatrin is not usually used alone except in the treatment of spasms in infants.
Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your seizures may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Tell your doctor if your infant's spasms worsen or have not improved within 2 to 4 weeks.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Information last revised May 2010
Copyright(c) 2010 First DataBank, Inc.

10 Signs of ADHD in Toddlers
6 Psoriasis Soothers From Your Kitchen Cupboards
Top Foods to Avoid with High Blood Pressure
Why Alcohol and Adderall Do Not Mix