Rufinamide is used to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
What is Rufinamide?
Rufinamide is an anticonvulsant. Its exact mechanism of action has not yet been identified. It is through to work by slowing down abnormal nerve impulses.
How should Rufinamide be taken?
Rufinamide is administered orally on a full stomach.
Side effects associated with Rufinamide
Rufinamide may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.
Among the other possible side effects of rufinamide include the following:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, throat or tongue
- Changes in appetite
- Loss of coordination or difficulty walking
- Fever, chills or sore throat
- Irregular heartbeat
- New psychological or behavioral problems or worsening of existing ones
- Severe muscle pain
- Severe or persistent dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue or weakness
- Suicidal thoughts
- Bruising or bleeding
- Vision problems
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Rufinamide
Rufinamide is contraindicated in case of the short QT syndrome (or in case of family history of short QT syndrome), or severe liver problems.
Before starting treatment with rufinamide, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, or to any other drugs, food and various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: medications that can cause short-QT syndrome, divalproex, valproic acid, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, lamotrigine, oral contraceptives and triazolam
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from psychological problems, mood disorders, heart or liver problems
- You are experiencing (or have experienced) suicidal thoughts
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from alcohol or drug abuse
- You are on dialysis
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
It is important to inform physicians, surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with rufinamide.
Treatment should never be stopped abruptly due to the risk of seizures.The drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be aggravated by alcohol and certain other medications.
