What is tiagabine?
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.
What is the most important information I should know about tiagabine?
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.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tiagabine?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to tiagabine.
If you have liver disease, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.
You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.
Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether tiagabine is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether tiagabine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.