This review of randomised controlled trials showed that vigabatrin can reduce seizure frequency in people with drug-resistant partial epilepsy. Short-term follow-up of patients showed that some side effects were associated with its use. Further analysis of longer-term observational studies is required to evaluate how likely patients are to develop visual field defects and whether such side effects are associated with dose and duration of drug use.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of vigabatrin 2 g/day and 3 g/day in uncontrolled partial seizures.
The efficacy and tolerability of vigabatrin as add-on therapy was assessed in patients with uncontrolled partial seizures. Ninety-seven patients entered this seven-centre, double-blind, placebo-crossover study. Vigabatrin (2 g or 3 g) or placebo was administered daily. Vigabatrin was well-tolerated and did not cause clinically significant adverse drug effects when added to established anticonvulsant therapy. No significant differences were observed between dose groups for the overall incidence of adverse events, although drowsiness and visual disturbances (diplopia, ataxia, visual abnormalities) showed a dose-related increase with vigabatrin treatment. The results of this study indicate that vigabatrin, given in a daily dose of either 2 g or 3 g is significantly more effective than placebo in reducing seizure frequency among patients with partial seizures.