Brand Names: Gabitril

Generic Name: tiagabine (Pronunciation: tye AG a been)

• What is tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• What are the possible side effects of tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• What is the most important information I should know about tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• How should I take tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Gabitril)?
• What happens if I overdose (Gabitril)?
• What should I avoid while taking tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• What other drugs will affect tiagabine (Gabitril)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is tiagabine (Gabitril)?

Tiagabine is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant.

Tiagabine is used to alone or in combination with other medications to treat partial seizures in adults and children who are at least 12 years old.

Tiagabine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Gabitril 12 mg

oval, green, imprinted with 412, C

Gabitril 16 mg

oval, blue, imprinted with 416, C

Gabitril 2 mg

round, peach, imprinted with 402, C

What are the possible side effects of tiagabine (Gabitril)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; fever; swollen glands; painful sores in or around your eyes or mouth; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• new or worsened seizures;
• confusion, hallucination;
• problems with speech or vision;
• severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;
• tremor;
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms; or
• chest pain, fast heart rate.

Less serious side effects may include:

• dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, tired feeling;
• feeling restless, irritable, or depressed;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
• trouble concentrating;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• lack of coordination;
• cough, sore throat; or
• weight changes.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Gabitril (tiagabine hydrochloride) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about tiagabine (Gabitril)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to tiagabine.

Before taking tiagabine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs or if you have liver disease.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Do not stop taking tiagabine without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. You may have increased seizures if you stop taking tiagabine suddenly. You will need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking tiagabine.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking tiagabine, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.