Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking tiagabine as follows:
- Tiagabine use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of tiagabine with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
- Avoid drinking grapefruit juice when you are taking tiagabine. Grapefruit juice can inhibit the activity of enzymes metabolizing tiagabine, which results in poor metabolism of the drug. This can result in tiagabine being active in the body for longer duration, contributing to risk for toxicity with the medication.
- Tiagabine is mainly metabolized in the liver and metabolism of tiagabine can be seriously impaired in individuals with history of compromised liver function. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of liver failure, if any, and your safety with tiagabine intake, if you are newly being started on the medication. Tiagabine could be avoided in individuals with hepatic dysfunction and an alternative medication considered or used with caution, with frequent dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for liver function and development of any toxic symptoms. Observe compliance with any periodical lab draws ordered for liver function evaluation.
