Tiagabine is a drug that is prescribed to treat partial seizures. While it is not exactly clear how the drug prevents these seizures in people with epilepsy, it may work by enhancing the effects of a naturally calming chemical (GABA) in the brain. As with all medications, side effects are possible with tiagabine. Some of the drug's common side effects include dizziness, weakness, and shakiness.
Tiagabine hydrochloride (
Gabitril®) is a prescription medication used to treat a specific type of epileptic
seizure.
Seizures are divided into two major categories: partial seizures (sometimes called focal seizures) and generalized seizures. Partial seizures occur in just one part of the brain, while generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain. Tiagabine is approved to be used with other seizure medications to control partial seizures in people with
epilepsy.
Tiagabine is made by Cephalon, Inc.
Epilepsy is a brain disorder caused by recurring, brief changes in the brain's electrical system. These changes in brain activity can lead to a seizure
(see Epilepsy Symptoms).
It is not known exactly how tiagabine works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. It may work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that is naturally calming. GABA helps to slow down the brain's electrical system, thereby controlling seizures. Tiagabine also helps to keep GABA in the parts of the brain where it is active, preventing it from being removed and enhancing its effects.
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