Vigabatrin

Vigabatrin belongs to the latest generation family of antiepileptics. This medicine is used in the treatment of seizures in people over 16 years old. It may be prescribed, however, to children from two years old in combination with other antiepileptics.

How does vigabatrin work?

Vigabatrin acts on GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and more precisely by specifically inhibiting GABA-transaminase. This enzyme is believed to be present in excess in some patients.

Do they have contraindications or precautions?

Vigabatrin can cause drowsiness and fatigue. In some patients, however, it is associated particularly with ophthalmological problems with narrowing the visual field. For this reason it is often prescribed in combination with specialist ophthalmological monitoring.

Sources:

• Merck Manual, 4^th edition
• Encycl Med Chir 90-45-0145
• Institute of pharmaceutical and biological sciences – Lyon faculty of pharmacy