In this session, we will be discussing the consumer medication information for tiagabine, trade name GabitrilTM.

What it’s for & How to take

Tiagabine is an anti-seizure medication. This medication helps restore chemical balance to the brain. Tiagabine is used in combination with other anti-seizure medications to prevent and control various seizure disorders. This medication is usually used as an addition to other medications when seizures have not been completely controlled.


Tiagabine is usually taken 2-4 times daily with food. This medication needs to be gradually increased over several weeks. The gradual increase in dosage is done to reduce the side effects.Take your dose at evenly spaced intervals to maintain a constant level of medication in your body.

Continue your other anti-seizure medications while taking tiagabine, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.



Warnings & Cautions

  • Infants born to mothers who are taking tiagabine are at risk. This medication should only be used during pregnancy when the benefit to the mother is greater than the risk to the unborn baby. This medication passes into breast milk. Talk with your doctor before breastfeeding while taking tiagabine.

Interactions & Side Effects

  • Tell your pharmacist or doctor all your medication allergies so they may determine if tiagabine is safe for you to take.
  • Ask your doctor if this medication is safe to take with your current health conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any history of liver or kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, or a history of depression or substance abuse.
  • While taking tiagabine, you may feel a decrease in balance, dizzy, irritability, blurred vision, tremor, confusion, or a headache. If these or any other unwanted side effects persist, contact your doctor or pharmacist to talk about it with them.
  • Call your doctor right away if you have any seizures, severe weakness, inability to form sentences, severe confusion, abdominal pain, or any other significant side effects.


Updated 7/20