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Vigabatrin
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vigabatrin | 500 mg/1 | 250820 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-epileptic Agent [EPC] | EPC | All 62 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 215707-001 | VIGABATRIN | TABLET | VIGABATRIN | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 6 | REMS | Approved | March 18, 2026 | — |
| Supplement | 3 | REMS | Approved | September 12, 2024 | — |
| Supplement | 1 | REMS | Approved | October 12, 2022 | — |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | January 19, 2022 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Original application · November 3, 2023
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260217). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: PERMANENT VISION LOSS Vigabatrin can cause permanent bilateral concentric visual field constriction, including tunnel vision that can result in disability. In some cases, vigabatrin also can damage the central retina and may decrease visual acuity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. The onset of vision loss from vigabatrin is unpredictable, and can occur within weeks of starting treatment or sooner, or at any time after starting treatment, even after months or years. Symptoms of vision loss from vigabatrin are unlikely to be recognized by patients or caregivers before vision loss is severe. Vision loss of milder severity, while often unrecognized by the patient or caregiver, can still adversely affect function. The risk of vision loss increases with increasing dose and cumulative exposure, but there is no dose or exposure known to be free of risk of vision loss. Vision assessment is recommended at baseline (no later than 4 weeks after starting vigabatrin), at least every 3 months during therapy, and about 3 to 6 months after the discontinuation of therapy. Once detected, vision loss due to vigabatrin is not reversible. It is expected that, even with frequent monitoring, some patients will develop severe vision loss. Consider drug discontinuation, balancing benefit and risk, if vision loss is documented. Risk of new or worsening vision loss continues as long as vigabatrin is used. It is possible that vision loss can worsen despite discontinuation of vigabatrin tablets. Because of the risk of vision loss, vigabatrin should be withdrawn from patients with refractory complex partial seizures who fail to show substantial clinical benefit within 3 months of initiation and within 2 to 4 weeks of initiation for patients with infantile spasms, or sooner if treatment failure becomes obvious. Patient response to and continued need for vigabatrin should be periodically reassessed. Vigabatrin should not be used in patients with, or at high risk of, other types of irreversible vision loss unless the benefits of treatment clearly outweigh the risks. Vigabatrin should not be used with other drugs associated with serious adverse ophthalmic effects such as retinopathy or glaucoma unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. · Use the lowest dosage and shortest exposure to vigabatrin consistent with clinical objectives [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 )]. Because of the risk of permanent vision loss, vigabatrin tablets are available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the Vigabatrin REMS Program [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2) ]. Further information is available at www.vigabatrinREMS.com or 1-866-244-8175. WARNING: PERMANENT VISION LOSS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Vigabatrin can cause permanent bilateral concentric visual field constriction, including tunnel vision that can result in disability. In some cases, vigabatrin may also decrease visual acuity ( 5.1 ). Risk increases with increasing dose and cumulative exposure, but there is no dose or exposure to vigabatrin known to be free of risk of vision loss ( 5.1 ). Risk of new and worsening vision loss continues as long as vigabatrin is used, and possibly after discontinuing vigabatrin tablets ( 5.1 ). Baseline and periodic vision assessment is recommended for patients on vigabatrin. However, this assessment cannot always prevent vision damage ( 5.1 ). Vigabatrin tablets are available only through a restricted program called the Vigabatrin REMS Program ( 5.2 ).
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingIndications and Usage ( 1.1 ) 1/2020 Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.4 , 2.5) 1/2020 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) 1/2020 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) 7/2019
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Vigabatrin tablets are indicated for the treatment of: Refractory Complex Partial Seizures as adjunctive therapy in patients 2 years of age and older who have responded inadequately to several alternative treatments; Vigabatrin tablets are not indicated as a first line agent ( 1.1 ) Infantile Spasms - monotherapy in infants 1 month to 2 years of age for whom the potential benefits outweigh the potential risk of vision loss ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Refractory Complex Partial Seizures (CPS) Vigabatrin tablets are indicated as adjunctive therapy for adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with refractory complex partial seizures who have inadequately responded to several alternative treatments and for whom the potential benefits outweigh the risk of vision loss [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ]. Vigabatrin tablets are not indicated as a first line agent for complex partial seizures. 1.2 Infantile Spasms (IS) Vigabatrin tablets are indicated as monotherapy for pediatric patients with infantile spasms 1 month to 2 years of age for whom the potential benefits outweigh the potential risk of vision loss [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ].
1.1 Refractory Complex Partial Seizures (CPS) Vigabatrin tablets are indicated as adjunctive therapy for adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with refractory complex partial seizures who have inadequately responded to several alternative treatments and for whom the potential benefits outweigh the risk of vision loss [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ]. Vigabatrin tablets are not indicated as a first line agent for complex partial seizures.
1.2 Infantile Spasms (IS) Vigabatrin tablets are indicated as monotherapy for pediatric patients with infantile spasms 1 month to 2 years of age for whom the potential benefits outweigh the potential risk of vision loss [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ].
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Refractory Complex Partial Seizures Adults (17 years of age and older): Initiate at 1,000 mg/day (500 mg twice daily); increase total daily dose weekly in 500 mg/day increments, to the recommended dose of 3,000 mg/day (1,500 mg twice daily) ( 2.2 ) Pediatric (2 to 16 years of age): The recommended dosage is based on body weight and administered as two divided doses ( 2.2 ) The dosage may be increased in weekly intervals, depending on response ( 2.2 ) Dose patients weighing more than 60 kg according to adult recommendations ( 2.2 ) Infantile Spasms Initiate at a daily dose of 50 mg/kg (25 mg/kg twice daily); increase total daily dose every 3 days, in increments of 25 mg/kg/day to 50 mg/kg/day, up to a maximum daily dose of 150 mg/kg (75 mg/kg twice daily) ( 2.3 ) Renal Impairment Dose adjustment recommended ( 2.4 , 8.5 , 8.6 ) 2.1 Important Dosing and Administration Instructions Dosing Use the lowest dosage and shortest exposure to vigabatrin tablets consistent with clinical objectives [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ]. The vigabatrin tablets dosing regimen depends on the indication, age group, weight, and dosage form (tablets or powder for oral solution) [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.3 )]. Patients with impaired renal function require dose adjustment [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 ) ]. Monitoring of vigabatrin plasma concentrations to optimize therapy is not helpful. Administration Vigabatrin tablets are given orally with or without food. If a decision is made to discontinue vigabatrin tablets, the dose should be gradually reduced [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) ]. 2.2 Refractory Complex Partial Seizures Adults (Patients 17 Years of Age and Older) Treatment should be initiated at 1,000 mg/day (500 mg twice daily). Total daily dose may be increased in 500 mg increments at weekly intervals, depending on response. The recommended dose of vigabatrin tablets in adults is 3,000 mg/day (1,500 mg twice daily). A 6,000 mg/day dose has not been shown to confer additional benefit compared to the 3,000 mg/day dose and is associated with an increased incidence of adverse events. In controlled clinical studies in adults with complex partial seizures, vigabatrin was tapered by decreasing the daily dose 1,000 mg/day on a weekly basis until discontinued [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) ]. Pediatric (Patients 2 to 16 Years of Age) The recommended dosage is based on body weight and administered as two divided doses, as shown in Table 1. The dosage may be increased in weekly intervals to the total daily maintenance dosage, depending on response. Pediatric patients weighing more than 60 kg should be dosed according to adult recommendations. Table 1. CPS Dosing Recommendations for Pediatric Patients Weighing 10 kg up to 60 kg †† Body Weight [kg] Total Daily*Starting Dose[mg/day] Total Daily*Maintenance Dose † [mg/day] 10 kg to 15 kg 350 mg 1,050 mg Greater than 15 kg to 20 kg 450 mg 1,300 mg Greater than 20 kg to 25 kg 500 mg 1,500 mg Greater than 25 kg to 60 kg 500 mg 2,000 mg *Administered in two divided doses. † Maintenance dose is based on 3,000 mg/day adult-equivalent dose †† Patients weighing more than 60 kg should be dosed according to adult recommendations In patients with refractory complex partial seizures, vigabatrin tablets should be withdrawn if a substantial clinical benefit is not observed within 3 months of initiating treatment. If, in the clinical judgment of the prescriber, evidence of treatment failure becomes obvious earlier than 3 months, treatment should be discontinued at that time [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ]. In a controlled study in pediatric patients with complex partial seizures, vigabatrin was tapered by decreasing the daily dose by one third every week for three weeks [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) ]. 2.3 Infantile Spasms The initial daily dosing is 50 mg/kg/day given in two divided doses ( …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Vigabatrin Tablets, USP are available for oral administration and are supplied as follows: 500 mg — Each white to off-white, film-coated, oval biconvex tablet functionally-scored on one side and debossed with A314 on the other side contains 500 mg of vigabatrin, USP. Tablet: 500 mg ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Abnormal MRI signal changes and intramyelinic edema have been reported in some infants with Infantile Spasms receiving vigabatrin ( 5.3 , 5.4 ) Suicidal behavior and ideation: Antiepileptic drugs, including vigabatrin, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior ( 5.5 ) Withdrawal of AEDs: Taper dose to avoid withdrawal seizures ( 5.6 ) Anemia: Monitor for symptoms of anemia ( 5.7 ) Somnolence and fatigue: Advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on vigabatrin ( 5.8 ) 5.1 Permanent Vision Loss Vigabatrin can cause permanent vision loss. Because of this risk and because, when it is effective, vigabatrin provides an observable symptomatic benefit; patient response and continued need for treatment should be periodically assessed. Based upon adult studies, 30 percent or more of patients can be affected with bilateral concentric visual field constriction ranging in severity from mild to severe. Severe cases may be characterized by tunnel vision to within 10 degrees of visual fixation, which can result in disability. In some cases, vigabatrin also can damage the central retina and may decrease visual acuity. Symptoms of vision loss from vigabatrin are unlikely to be recognized by patients or caregivers before vision loss is severe. Vision loss of milder severity, while often unrecognized by the patient or caregiver, can still adversely affect function. Because assessing vision may be difficult in children, the frequency and extent of vision loss is poorly characterized in these patients. For this reason, the understanding of the risk is primarily based on the adult experience. The possibility that vision loss from vigabatrin may be more common, more severe, or have more severe functional consequences in children than in adults cannot be excluded. The onset of vision loss from vigabatrin is unpredictable and can occur within weeks of starting treatment or sooner, or at any time after starting treatment, even after months or years. The risk of vision loss increases with increasing dose and cumulative exposure, but there is no dose or exposure known to be free of risk of vision loss. In patients with refractory complex partial seizures, vigabatrin should be withdrawn if a substantial clinical benefit is not observed within 3 months of initiating treatment. If, in the clinical judgment of the prescriber, evidence of treatment failure becomes obvious earlier than 3 months, treatment should be discontinued at that time [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] . Vigabatrin should not be used in patients with, or at high risk of, other types of irreversible vision loss unless the benefits of treatment clearly outweigh the risks. The interaction of other types of irreversible vision damage with vision damage from vigabatrin has not been well-characterized, but is likely adverse. Vigabatrin should not be used with other drugs associated with serious adverse ophthalmic effects such as retinopathy or glaucoma unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Monitoring of Vision Monitoring of vision by an ophthalmic professional with expertise in visual field interpretation and the ability to perform dilated indirect ophthalmoscopy of the retina is recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . For patients receiving vigabatrin, vision assessment is recommended at baseline (no later than 4 weeks after starting vigabatrin), at least every 3 months while on therapy, and about 3 to 6 months after the discontinuation of therapy. The diagnostic approach should be individualized for the patient and clinical situation. In adults and cooperative pediatric patients, perimetry is recommended, preferably by automated threshold visual field testing. Additional testing may also include electrophysiology (e.g., electroretinography [ERG]), retinal imaging (e.g., optical coherence tomography [OCT]), and/or other methods appropriate for t …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious and otherwise important adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling: Permanent Vision Loss [ see BOXED WARNING and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ] Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Abnormalities in Infants [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ] Neurotoxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) ] · Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ) ] Withdrawal of Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) ] Anemia [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7) ] Somnolence and Fatigue [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 ) ] Peripheral Neuropathy [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9) ] Weight Gain [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 ) ] Edema [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 ) ] Refractory Complex Partial Seizures Most common adverse reactions in controlled studies include (incidence ≥5% over placebo): Adults: blurred vision, somnolence, dizziness, abnormal coordination, tremor, and fatigue ( 6.1 ) Pediatric patients (3 to 16 years of age): weight gain ( 6.1 ) Infantile Spasms (incidence >5% and greater than on placebo) Somnolence, bronchitis, ear infection, and acute otitis media ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Inc. at 1-888-375-3784 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. In U.S. and primary non-U.S. clinical studies of 4,079 vigabatrin-treated patients, the most common (≥5%) adverse reactions associated with the use of vigabatrin in combination with other AEDs were headache, somnolence, fatigue, dizziness, convulsion, nasopharyngitis, weight gain, upper respiratory tract infection, visual field defect, depression, tremor, nystagmus, nausea, diarrhea, memory impairment, insomnia, irritability, abnormal coordination, blurred vision, diplopia, vomiting, influenza, pyrexia, and rash. The adverse reactions most commonly associated with vigabatrin treatment discontinuation in ≥1% of patients were convulsion and depression. In patients with infantile spasms, the adverse reactions most commonly associated with vigabatrin treatment discontinuation in ≥1% of patients were infections, status epilepticus, developmental coordination disorder, dystonia, hypotonia, hypertonia, weight gain, and insomnia. Refractory Complex Partial Seizures Adults Table 5 lists the adverse reactions that occurred in ≥2% and more than one patient per vigabatrin-treated group and that occurred more frequently than in placebo patients from 2 U.S. adjunctive clinical studies of refractory CPS in adults. Table 5. Adverse Reactions in Pooled, Adjunctive Trials in Adults with Refractory Complex Partial Seizures Vigabatrin dosage(mg/day) Vigabatrin dosage(mg/day) Vigabatrin dosage(mg/day) 3000 6000 Placebo Body System [N=134] [N=43] [N=135] Adverse Reaction % % % Ear Disorders Tinnitus 2 0 1 Vertigo 2 5 1 Eye Disorders Blurred vision 13 16 5 Diplopia 7 16 3 Asthenopia 2 2 0 Eye pain 0 5 0 Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea 10 16 7 Nausea 10 2 8 Vomiting 7 9 6 Constipation 8 5 3 Upper abdominal pain 5 5 1 Dyspepsia 4 5 3 Stomach discomfort 4 2 1 Abdominal pain 3 2 1 Toothache 2 5 2 Abdominal distension 2 0 1 General Disorders Fatigue 23 40 16 Gait disturbance 6 12 7 Asthenia 5 7 1 Edema peripheral 5 7 1 Fever 4 7 3 Chest pain 1 5 1 Thirst 2 0 0 Malaise 0 5 0 Infections Nasopharyngitis 14 9 10 Upper respiratory tract infection 7 9 6 Influenza 5 7 4 Urinary tract infection 4 5 0 Bronchitis 0 5 1 Injury Contusion 3 5 2 Joint sprain 1 2 1 Muscle strain 1 2 1 Wound secretion 0 2 0 Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders Increased appetite 1 5 1 Weight gain 6 14 3 Musculoskeletal Disorders Arthralgia 10 5 3 Back pain 4 7 2 Pain in e …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Decreased phenytoin plasma levels: dosage adjustment may be needed ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Antiepileptic Drugs Phenytoin Although phenytoin dose adjustments are not routinely required, dose adjustment of phenytoin should be considered if clinically indicated, since vigabatrin may cause a moderate reduction in total phenytoin plasma levels [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. Clonazepam Vigabatrin may moderately increase the C max of clonazepam resulting in an increase of clonazepam-associated adverse reactions [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. Other AEDs There are no clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions between vigabatrin and either phenobarbital or sodium valproate. Based on population pharmacokinetics, carbamazepine, clorazepate, primidone, and sodium valproate appear to have no effect on plasma concentrations of vigabatrin [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. 7.2 Oral Contraceptives Vigabatrin is unlikely to affect the efficacy of steroid oral contraceptives [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. 7.3 Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions Vigabatrin decreases alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) plasma activity in up to 90% of patients. In some patients, these enzymes become undetectable. The suppression of ALT and AST activity by vigabatrin may preclude the use of these markers, especially ALT, to detect early hepatic injury. Vigabatrin may increase the amount of amino acids in the urine, possibly leading to a false positive test for certain rare genetic metabolic diseases (e.g., alpha aminoadipic aciduria).
7.1 Antiepileptic Drugs Phenytoin Although phenytoin dose adjustments are not routinely required, dose adjustment of phenytoin should be considered if clinically indicated, since vigabatrin may cause a moderate reduction in total phenytoin plasma levels [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. Clonazepam Vigabatrin may moderately increase the C max of clonazepam resulting in an increase of clonazepam-associated adverse reactions [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ]. Other AEDs There are no clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions between vigabatrin and either phenobarbital or sodium valproate. Based on population pharmacokinetics, carbamazepine, clorazepate, primidone, and sodium valproate appear to have no effect on plasma concentrations of vigabatrin [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ].
7.2 Oral Contraceptives Vigabatrin is unlikely to affect the efficacy of steroid oral contraceptives [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ].
7.3 Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions Vigabatrin decreases alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) plasma activity in up to 90% of patients. In some patients, these enzymes become undetectable. The suppression of ALT and AST activity by vigabatrin may preclude the use of these markers, especially ALT, to detect early hepatic injury. Vigabatrin may increase the amount of amino acids in the urine, possibly leading to a false positive test for certain rare genetic metabolic diseases (e.g., alpha aminoadipic aciduria).
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm ( 8.1 ) Lactation: Vigabatrin is excreted in human milk ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to AEDs, including vigabatrin, during pregnancy. Encourage women who are taking vigabatrin during pregnancy to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. This can be done by calling the toll-free number 1-888-233-2334 or visiting the website, http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org/. This must be done by the patient herself. Risk Summary There are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with the use of vigabatrin in pregnant women. Limited available data from case reports and cohort studies pertaining to vigabatrin use in pregnant women have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. However, based on animal data, vigabatrin use in pregnant women may result in fetal harm. When administered to pregnant animals, vigabatrin produced developmental toxicity, including an increase in fetal malformations and offspring neurobehavioral and neurohistopathological effects, at clinically relevant doses. In addition, developmental neurotoxicity was observed in rats treated with vigabatrin during a period of postnatal development corresponding to the third trimester of human pregnancy ( see Data ). In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data Animal Data Administration of vigabatrin (oral doses of 50 to 200 mg/kg/day) to pregnant rabbits throughout the period of organogenesis was associated with an increased incidence of malformations (cleft palate) and embryofetal death; these findings were observed in two separate studies. The no-effect dose for adverse effects on embryofetal development in rabbits (100 mg/kg/day) is approximately 1/2 the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 3 grams/day on a body surface area (mg/m 2 ) basis. In rats, oral administration of vigabatrin (50, 100, or 150 mg/kg/day) throughout organogenesis resulted in decreased fetal body weights and increased incidences of fetal anatomic variations. The no-effect dose for adverse effects on embryo-fetal development in rats (50 mg/kg/day) is approximately 1/5 the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis. Oral administration of vigabatrin (50, 100, 150 mg/kg/day) to rats from the latter part of pregnancy through weaning produced long-term neurohistopathological (hippocampal vacuolation) and neurobehavioral (convulsions) abnormalities in the offspring. A no-effect dose for developmental neurotoxicity in rats was not established; the low-effect dose (50 mg/kg/day) is approximately 1/5 the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis. In a published study, vigabatrin (300 or 450 mg/kg) was administered by intraperitoneal injection to a mutant mouse strain on a single day during organogenesis (day 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12). An increase in fetal malformations (including cleft palate) was observed at both doses. Oral administration of vigabatrin (5, 15, or 50 mg/kg/day) to young rats during the neonatal and juvenile periods of development (postnatal days 4 to 65) produced neurobehavioral (convulsions, neuromotor impairment, learning deficits) and neurohistopathological (brain vacuolation, decreased myelination, and retinal dysplasia) abnormalities in treated animals. The early postnatal period in rats is generally thought to correspond to late pregnancy in humans in terms of brain development. The no-effect dose for developmental neurotoxicity in juvenile rats (5 mg/kg/day) was associated with plasma vigabatrin exposures (AUC) less than 1/30 of those measured in pediatric patients receiving an oral …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action The precise mechanism of vigabatrin's anti-seizure effect is unknown, but it is believed to be the result of its action as an irreversible inhibitor of γ-aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T), the enzyme responsible for the metabolism of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. This action results in increased levels of GABA in the central nervous system. No direct correlation between plasma concentration and efficacy has been established. The duration of drug effect is presumed to be dependent on the rate of enzyme re-synthesis rather than on the rate of elimination of the drug from the systemic circulation.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Vigabatrin, USP is an oral antiepileptic drug and is available as white film-coated 500 mg tablets. The chemical name of vigabatrin, a racemate consisting of two enantiomers, is (±) 4-amino-5-hexenoic acid. The molecular formula is C 6 H 11 NO 2 and the molecular weight is 129.16. It has the following structural formula: Vigabatrin, USP is a white or almost white powder which is freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in methyl alcohol, very slightly soluble in ethyl alcohol and chloroform, and insoluble in toluene and hexane. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution is about 6.9. The n-octanol/water partition coefficient of vigabatrin is about 0.011 (log P =-1.96) at physiologic pH. Vigabatrin, USP melts with decomposition in a 3-degree range within the temperature interval of 171°C to 176°C. The dissociation constants (pK a ) of vigabatrin are 4 and 9.7 at room temperature (25°C). Each vigabatrin tablet, USP contains 500 mg of vigabatrin, USP. The inactive ingredients are hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, medium chain triglycerides, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, polydextrose, sodium starch glycolate, talc, and titanium dioxide. FDA approved dissolution test specifications differ from USP. structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE 10.1 Signs, Symptoms, and Laboratory Findings of Overdosage Confirmed and/or suspected vigabatrin overdoses have been reported during clinical trials and in post marketing surveillance. No vigabatrin overdoses resulted in death. When reported, the vigabatrin dose ingested ranged from 3 grams to 90 grams, but most were between 7.5 grams and 30 grams. Nearly half the cases involved multiple drug ingestions including carbamazepine, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, lamotrigine, valproic acid, acetaminophen, and/or chlorpheniramine. Coma, unconsciousness, and/or drowsiness were described in the majority of cases of vigabatrin overdose. Other less commonly reported symptoms included vertigo, psychosis, apnea or respiratory depression, bradycardia, agitation, irritability, confusion, headache, hypotension, abnormal behavior, increased seizure activity, status epilepticus, and speech disorder. These symptoms resolved with supportive care. 10.2 Management of Overdosage There is no specific antidote for vigabatrin overdose. Standard measures to remove unabsorbed drug should be used, including elimination by emesis or gastric lavage. Supportive measures should be employed, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of the clinical status of the patient. In an in vitro study, activated charcoal did not significantly adsorb vigabatrin. The effectiveness of hemodialysis in the treatment of vigabatrin overdose is unknown. In isolated case reports in renal failure patients receiving therapeutic doses of vigabatrin, hemodialysis reduced vigabatrin plasma concentrations by 40% to 60%.
10.1 Signs, Symptoms, and Laboratory Findings of Overdosage Confirmed and/or suspected vigabatrin overdoses have been reported during clinical trials and in post marketing surveillance. No vigabatrin overdoses resulted in death. When reported, the vigabatrin dose ingested ranged from 3 grams to 90 grams, but most were between 7.5 grams and 30 grams. Nearly half the cases involved multiple drug ingestions including carbamazepine, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, lamotrigine, valproic acid, acetaminophen, and/or chlorpheniramine. Coma, unconsciousness, and/or drowsiness were described in the majority of cases of vigabatrin overdose. Other less commonly reported symptoms included vertigo, psychosis, apnea or respiratory depression, bradycardia, agitation, irritability, confusion, headache, hypotension, abnormal behavior, increased seizure activity, status epilepticus, and speech disorder. These symptoms resolved with supportive care.
10.2 Management of Overdosage There is no specific antidote for vigabatrin overdose. Standard measures to remove unabsorbed drug should be used, including elimination by emesis or gastric lavage. Supportive measures should be employed, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of the clinical status of the patient. In an in vitro study, activated charcoal did not significantly adsorb vigabatrin. The effectiveness of hemodialysis in the treatment of vigabatrin overdose is unknown. In isolated case reports in renal failure patients receiving therapeutic doses of vigabatrin, hemodialysis reduced vigabatrin plasma concentrations by 40% to 60%.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied Vigabatrin Tablets USP, 500 mg are white to off white, oval shaped, biconvex, film coated scored tablets de bossed with '87' on one side and '1' and '2' on either side of score line on the other side. They are supplied as follow: NDC 70710-1287-1 in bottles of 100 tablets with child-resistant closure 16.2 Storage and Handling Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). See USP controlled room temperature.
16.1 How Supplied Vigabatrin Tablets USP, 500 mg are white to off white, oval shaped, biconvex, film coated scored tablets de bossed with '87' on one side and '1' and '2' on either side of score line on the other side. They are supplied as follow: NDC 70710-1287-1 in bottles of 100 tablets with child-resistant closure
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: VIGABATRIN. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0591-3851-01 | 0591-3851 | Actavis Pharma, Inc. | 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0591-3851-01) | February 6, 2019 |
| 0591-3851-77 | 0591-3851 | Actavis Pharma, Inc. | 16956 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 CONTAINER (0591-3851-77) | August 22, 2024 |
| 80005-167-11 | 80005-167 | Carnegie Pharmaceuticals LLC | 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (80005-167-11) / 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE | February 18, 2026 |
| 43598-651-01 | 43598-651 | Dr. Reddys Laboratories Inc. | 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (43598-651-01) | February 1, 2021 |
| 70771-1654-1 | 70771-1654 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1654-1) | January 20, 2022 |
| 70710-1287-1 | 70710-1287 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | 100 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1287-1) | January 20, 2022 |
| 0591-3851 | 0591-3851 | Actavis Pharma, Inc. | — | February 6, 2019 |
| 80005-167 | 80005-167 | Carnegie Pharmaceuticals LLC | — | February 18, 2026 |
| 43598-651 | 43598-651 | Dr. Reddys Laboratories Inc. | — | February 1, 2021 |
| 70771-1654 | 70771-1654 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | January 20, 2022 |
| 70710-1287 | 70710-1287 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | — | January 20, 2022 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.