Felbamate Drug - How does Felbamate Works?

Type of Drug:

Anticonvulsant; antiepileptic.

How the Felbamate Product Works:

Felbamate acts on the central nervous system to decrease the frequency of seizures.

Uses of The Felbamate:

Felbamate is not indicated as a first-line antiepileptic treatment. Felbamate is recommended for use only in those patients who respond inadequately to alternative treatments and whose epilepsy is so severe that a substantial risk of aplastic anemia or liver failure is deemed acceptable in light of the benefits conferred by its use.

Felbamate is indicated as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures with and without generalization in adults with epilepsy.

Also indicated as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial or generalized seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in children.

Precations:

Alastic anemia: This drug should be used only in cases so severe that the risk of a plastic anemia (bone marrow failure) is seemed acceptable.

Liver failure: There have been cases of acute liver failure, some fatal, in association with the use of felbamate.

Discontinuation: Antiepileptic drugs should not be suddenly discontinued because of the risk of increasing seizure frequency.

Sensitivity to light: May cause photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight). Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and other ultraviolet light. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing until tolerance is determined.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outA­weigh the possible hazards to the fetus.

Breastfeeding: Felbamate appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in children other than those with LennoxA­Gastaut syndrome have not been established.

Lab Tests: Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Tests may include liver function tests (ALT, AST, and bilirubin).

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or if you are planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking felbamate. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. The following drugs and drug classes interact with felbamate:

Carbamazepine (eg, Tegretol)

Hydantoins (eg, phenytoin)

Methsuximide (celontin)

Phenobarbital (eg, Solfoton)

Valproic acid (eg, depakene)

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many felbamate users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Upset stomach; vomiting; constipation; indigestion; diarrhea; nausea; appetite loss; stomach pain or bloating; hiccough.

Nervous System: Sleeplessness; headache; anxiety; drowsiness; dizziness; nervousness; tremor; depression; abnormal walking; abnormal skin sensations; stupor; confusion; mood changes (especially in children); unstable emotions; abnormal thinking; pinpoint pupils; incoordination; agitation.

Respiratory System: Upper respiratory tract (eg, nose, throat) infection; nasal congestion; sinus inflammation; sore throat; coughing.

Skin: Acne; rash; itching; yellowing of the skin; unusual bruising; sensitivity to light.

Urinary and Reproductive Tract: Urinary incontinence; irregular menstrual bleeding; urinary tract infection.

Other: Aplastic anemia (bone marrow failure); acute liver failure; fatigue; fever; chest pain; palpitations (pounding in the chest); weight fluctuation; face edema (fluid retention or swelling); pain; weakness; impaired vision; chnnges in taste perception; dry mouth; muscle pain; bleeding or brusung; flu symptoms; general body discomfort; fast heartbeat; middle ear infection; abnormal blood counts; abnormal lab tests.

Guidelines for Use:

Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.

Do not change the dose or stop taking, unless advised by your doctor.

May be taken with or without food.

Shake suspension well before use.

Do not discontinue use without first checking with your doctor. If you stop taking this drug suddenly, the frequency of your seizures could increase.

May cause photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight). Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and other ultraviolet (UV) light. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing until tolerance is determined.

Notify your doctor immediately if you experience fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, appetite loss, stomach pain or bloating, weakness, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, rash, or dark urine.

Lab tests will be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments.

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.