Rufinamide
Seizures
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No
rufinamide
Summary
Rufinamide is used to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which is a severe form of epilepsy characterized by frequent seizures and developmental delays.
Rufinamide works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, which helps control seizures. It acts like a traffic light, regulating the flow of electrical signals to prevent them from becoming too rapid or chaotic.
The usual starting dose for adults is 400 to 800 mg per day, divided into two doses. The maximum recommended dose is 3200 mg per day. For children, the dose is based on body weight. Rufinamide is taken orally, with or without food.
Common side effects of Rufinamide include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea, which are unwanted reactions that can occur with medication use. These effects vary from person to person.
Rufinamide can cause serious allergic reactions, which require immediate medical help. It may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. Avoid alcohol, which can increase side effects like dizziness. Do not stop taking Rufinamide suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Indications and Purpose
How does Rufinamide work?
Rufinamide works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, which helps control seizures. It belongs to a class of medications called anticonvulsants, which are used to treat epilepsy. Think of it like a traffic light that helps regulate the flow of cars on a busy road. Rufinamide helps regulate the electrical signals in the brain, preventing them from becoming too rapid or chaotic, which can lead to seizures. This makes it effective for managing seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Is Rufinamide effective?
Rufinamide is effective in treating seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which is a severe form of epilepsy. Clinical studies show that Rufinamide can significantly reduce the frequency of seizures in patients with this condition. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, helping to control seizures. If you have questions about how well Rufinamide is working for you, discuss them with your doctor. They can help assess your treatment progress and make any necessary adjustments.
What is Rufinamide?
Rufinamide is a medication used to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which is a severe form of epilepsy. It belongs to the class of drugs known as anticonvulsants, which help control seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. Rufinamide is usually used in combination with other seizure medications to improve seizure control. If you have questions about how Rufinamide works or its uses, discuss them with your doctor.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Rufinamide?
Rufinamide is usually a long-term medication for managing seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which is a severe form of epilepsy. You'll typically take Rufinamide every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your seizures to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Rufinamide treatment.
How do I dispose of Rufinamide?
If you can, bring unused Rufinamide to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Rufinamide?
Rufinamide is usually taken twice daily, with or without food. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions on the exact dosage and timing. If you have trouble swallowing the tablets, they can be crushed and mixed with water or food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Rufinamide to start working?
Rufinamide begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but it may take several weeks to see the full benefits. The time it takes to achieve its full therapeutic effect can vary depending on individual factors like your condition and response to the medication. It's important to take Rufinamide exactly as prescribed and attend regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your progress. If you have concerns about how quickly Rufinamide is working, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How should I store Rufinamide?
Store Rufinamide at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from damage. Don't store your medicine in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store Rufinamide out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Rufinamide?
The usual starting dose of Rufinamide for adults is typically 400 to 800 mg per day, divided into two doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose is usually 3200 mg per day. For children, the dose is often based on body weight. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Rufinamide with other prescription drugs?
Rufinamide can interact with other medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce its effectiveness. For example, it can interact with certain seizure medications, affecting their levels in your body. Always tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Your doctor can help manage any potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Can Rufinamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of Rufinamide while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's not clear if this medication passes into human breast milk. If you're taking Rufinamide and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits. Your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you and your baby. Always discuss any concerns about breastfeeding while on Rufinamide with your healthcare provider.
Can Rufinamide be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Rufinamide during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited data is available, and the effects on an unborn baby are not fully known. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby. Always discuss the risks and benefits of using Rufinamide during pregnancy with your healthcare provider.
Does Rufinamide have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions that can occur with medication use. Common adverse effects of Rufinamide include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. These effects vary from person to person. Serious side effects, though rare, include allergic reactions and mood changes. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to Rufinamide and suggest appropriate actions.
Does Rufinamide have any safety warnings?
Rufinamide has important safety warnings. It can cause serious allergic reactions, which require immediate medical help. This medication may also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. If you experience mood changes, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, contact your doctor right away. Rufinamide can cause dizziness or drowsiness, so be cautious when driving or operating machinery. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new or worsening symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Rufinamide?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Rufinamide. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which may impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness. Drinking alcohol while on this medication can also affect how well it controls your seizures. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Rufinamide to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Rufinamide?
You can exercise while taking Rufinamide, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which might affect your balance or coordination during physical activity. To exercise safely, start with light activities and gradually increase intensity as you see how your body responds. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine while taking Rufinamide, but check with your doctor if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Is it safe to stop Rufinamide?
Stopping Rufinamide suddenly can cause serious problems, especially if you're taking it for seizures. Your seizures might return or worsen if you stop abruptly. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Rufinamide. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms and keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
Is Rufinamide addictive?
Rufinamide is not considered addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Rufinamide works by affecting the brain's electrical activity to help control seizures. This mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Rufinamide doesn't carry this risk while managing your health condition.
Is Rufinamide safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the side effects of Rufinamide, such as dizziness or drowsiness. These effects can increase the risk of falls or accidents. It's important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while taking Rufinamide. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and any side effects. Always discuss any concerns about using Rufinamide with your healthcare provider.
What are the most common side effects of Rufinamide?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Rufinamide include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Rufinamide, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. Your doctor can help determine if your symptoms are related to Rufinamide and suggest appropriate actions.
Who should avoid taking Rufinamide?
Don't take Rufinamide if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Rufinamide should be used with caution in people with liver problems, as it may affect liver function. Always consult your doctor about these concerns and discuss any other medical conditions you have before starting Rufinamide.
