FELBAMATE
Felbamate is classified as an anticonvulsant or anti-Seizure drug that is used to reduce the frequency of seizures.
What is Felbamate used for (Indications)?
- Focal onset seizures, adjunctive therapy
- Focal onset seizures, monotherapy
- Lennox Gastaut Syndrome
What is Felbamate available as? (not available in India as of August 2025)
- Tablet
- Oral suspension
How does Felbamate act (mechanism of action)?
Felbamate reduces excessive brain activity by acting on NMDA pathway and reducing glutamate activity, which aids in seizure control. It is also believed to act by multiple mechanisms of which little is known..
How much time does Felbamate take to act?
Felbamate typically starts to show its effects within a few hours after administration, especially in terms of reducing seizure frequency. However, it may take several days to weeks for the full therapeutic effect to be noticed. The exact timing can vary depending on the individual, their specific condition, and how their body responds to the medication.
What is the ideal time to take Felbamate?
Take this medication either before or after food as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a day. Take after food or milk if stomach upset occur.
You can give the medication again if you or your child throws up within 30 minutes of taking it; but, if your child throws up after 30 minutes, don’t give him the medication again.
Could this medication have any side effects?
Felbamate use caused serious and fatal side effects in the form of aplastic anemia (Absence of blood cells production) and also liver failure. Hence is has been withdrawn from various countries. It is not available in India.Once you begin taking the medicine, this issue may arise at any time; the risk increases for a few months even after you stop taking it.
Therefore, in nations where this drug is available, a parent or adult must sign an informed consent form before the medication is provided.
Does Felbamate cause weight gain?
Yes, Felbamate can cause changes in weight among few people. It is more commonly associated with weight loss (in some cases), but weight gain is also a potential side effect. If you experience significant weight changes while on Felbamate, it’s important to discuss it with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
Contraindication of Felbamate
- History of Aplastic Anaemia
- Liver Problems
- Hypersensitivity
Is it safe to take other common medications while taking Felbamate?
Yes, you can usually take other common drugs while taking Felbamate, but it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions. Felbamate can interact with other drugs, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing side effects. To prevent any negative interactions, always let your doctor know about all of the prescriptions you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal items.
What foods should I avoid while taking felbamate?
- Alcohol: Increase the risk of dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid
- Foods like chocolate, energy drinks, coffee, tea, and tea might trigger seizures and interfere with epileptic medications.
- Carbohydrates: The risk of seizures may increase as a result of elevated blood sugar levels.
- Consuming more salt can increase sodium levels in the body, which results in an electrolyte imbalance and possibly cause seizures.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
In general, Felbamate is not advised during nursing or pregnancy. However, it may be used only if the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks to the mother and baby.
Is becoming pregnant while taking Felbamate a risk?
If you are planning to conceive while taking Felbamate, you should immediately consult your doctor. They may recommend switching to a safer alternative to manage seizures during pregnancy.Where should I store felbamate?
Medication has to be Stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
For complete information please see the leaflet in manufacturer’s information.
Monitoring parameters of Felbamate:
- Regularly monitor liver enzymes mandatorily.
- Before beginning treatment, patients with sodium channelopathies, conduction disease issues, or any other cardiac condition should have their ECGs traced.
SUMMARY
Felbamate is an anti-seizure medication prescribed for epilepsy when other treatments prove ineffective.”. However, it is typically administered with caution due to the possibility of major side effects, such as blood disorders and liver issues. It is important to take it under strict medical supervision, with regular checks on liver function and blood counts. During pregnancy or when nursing, this is not advised. See your doctor before starting or stopping this medication.
Let us know if this information was useful!
Author:
- Dr. Ramya. R, Pharm D, Clinical pharmacologist, Aster Hospitals, Bengaluru
- Dr Praveen Kumar, B. Pharm, Pharm D(PB), Head Clinical Pharmacologist, Aster Hospitals, Bengaluru
- Dr C P Ravi Kumar, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Aster CMI Hospital.