Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Gabitril as follows:
Teratogenic side-effects
- Gabitril use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in birth defects. Discuss with your physician regarding your pregnancy and possible risk with Gabitril use, if you are being newly started on Gabitril. Gabitril use could be avoided during pregnancy and in women planning to get pregnant. Women in the child bearing age group, taking Gabitril on a regular basis, must employ effective contraceptive measures in order to avoid getting pregnant.
Musculoskeletal side-effects
- Gabitril use can result in tremors, poor motor coordination and unsteadiness, with increased fall risk and accidents. Confusion and dizziness with Gabitril use, can add to the motor incoordination, thus enhancing the fall risk significantly.
- Gabitril use can also result in abnormal contractions of muscles controlling the movement of the eyes, resulting in random and unusual eye movements and consequent vision changes.
- Gabitril intake also carries the risk of causing or aggravating some varieties of seizures, especially in individuals with history of the same.
