Vigabatrin (Sabril) Drug for AIDS/HIV: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Vigabatrin
(Sabril, United States and Canada)

Use:

Vigabatrin or Sabril is used for seizure control in conditions like epilepsy.

How It Works:

Vigabatrin or Sabril increases levels of gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) which is a natural neuro chemical found in the nervous system. It inhibits the enzyme responsible for GABA's breakdown.

Side Effects:

Vigabatrin or Sabril may cause behaviourial disturbances. Its side effects include tiredness, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and weight gain.

Cautions for People:

Because it can cause behavioural disturbances, people with a history of aggressive, psychotic episodes should avoid it. Vigabatrin or Sabril is excreted through the kidney, thus older people and people with kidney problems should avoid it. People should not drive a care or perform tasks that require mental alertness.

Drug Interactions:

Vigabatrin or Sabril can interact with any other drug than causes drowsiness, to produce even more drowsiness.

Further Reading:

J R Soc Med 1995;88(12):686
J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1996;276(3):977
Seizure 1996;5(1):51
Neurology 1996;41(1Suppl1):S1,S6,S12

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.