Torpanel 6mg Tab

TORPANEL 6MG TABLET is a medication primarily used in the management of epilepsy and seizures.

Name

• Brand Name: TORPANEL 6MG TABLET
• Common Name: Perampanel

Composition

TORPANEL 6MG TABLET contains Perampanel 6 mg as its active ingredient.

Uses

TORPANEL 6MG TABLET is an antiepileptic medicine prescribed to manage seizures in individuals diagnosed with epilepsy. It is used as an adjunctive therapy for:

• Partial-onset seizures with or without secondarily generalized seizures in patients aged 4 years and older.
• Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (fits that affect all the brain) in adults, adolescents (12 years and above), and children (7 to 11 years of age). The medication works by blocking specific glutamate receptors in the brain, thereby reducing the abnormal and excessive nerve cell activity that triggers seizures.

Dosage and Administration

TORPANEL 6MG TABLET should be taken orally, usually once daily, preferably before bedtime. It can be consumed with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day for optimal results. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. Dosage should be strictly adhered to as prescribed by a healthcare professional, as it has a potential for habit formation, and abrupt discontinuation can increase seizure frequency.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness/Drowsiness
• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Weight gain
• Nausea
• Anger, aggression, irritability
• Balance disorder, impaired coordination, altered walking, fall
• Headache
• Vertigo (spinning sensation)
• Blurred vision or double vision (diplopia)

Serious Side Effects:

• Serious psychiatric and behavioral side effects such as aggression, hostility, irritability, anger, and suicidal and murderous thoughts.
• Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) or Stevens-Johnson syndrome (severe skin reactions).

Precautions

• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol should be avoided during treatment as it can increase sleepiness, dizziness, and the risk of seizures.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in pregnant women or those planning pregnancy, and probably unsafe during breastfeeding. Consult a doctor.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until the medication's effects are known.
• Kidney and Liver Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver problems; regular monitoring may be necessary. Not recommended for patients with serious liver problems or moderate to serious kidney problems.
• Psychiatric History: Use with caution in patients with a history of depression, aggression, or suicidal thoughts as Perampanel may worsen these conditions.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 4 years of age for partial seizures and below 7 years for generalized seizures.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter and herbal remedies, as some anti-epileptic medications (e.g., carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, felbamate) may affect TORPANEL.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting a doctor, as it can increase seizure frequency and lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Storage

Store TORPANEL 6MG TABLET below 30°C. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and protect from light and moisture, in a cool and dry place. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.

Here are frequently asked questions about TORPANEL 6MG TAB:

What is TORPANEL 6MG TAB used for?

TORPANEL 6MG TAB is an antiepileptic medication primarily used to treat epilepsy and seizures. It is specifically designed to manage partial-onset seizures, with or without secondary generalized seizures. This medication helps to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures and can alleviate associated symptoms such as confusion, uncontrollable jerking movements, loss of awareness, and feelings of fear or anxiety.

How does TORPANEL 6MG TAB work?

TORPANEL 6MG TAB contains Perampanel, which is an antiepileptic agent. It works by targeting and blocking specific glutamate receptors (AMPA receptors) in the brain. By inhibiting these receptors, it suppresses the abnormal and excessive nerve cell activity responsible for triggering seizures, thereby stabilizing the brain's electrical activity.

What is the usual dosage for TORPANEL 6MG TAB?

TORPANEL 6MG TAB should be taken orally, with or without food, typically once daily. It is advisable to take it at the same time each day, preferably before bedtime. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. The starting dose is usually 2 mg and may be gradually increased by your doctor. The maximum recommended dose is 12 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and duration.

What are the possible side effects of TORPANEL 6MG TAB?

Common side effects of TORPANEL 6MG TAB can include dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, anger, and balance issues such as loss of balance, impaired coordination, or altered walking. Other reported side effects include weight gain, irritability, anxiety, confusion, slow speech, blurred or double vision, back pain, and headache. More serious, though rare, psychiatric and behavioral side effects like aggression, hostility, and suicidal or murderous thoughts have been reported. Inform your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Is TORPANEL 6MG TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

TORPANEL 6MG TAB is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may be unsafe and animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. For breastfeeding mothers, it is probably unsafe as the medication may pass into breastmilk and potentially harm the infant. Women of child-bearing potential should use reliable contraception during treatment and for one month after discontinuing the medication. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can TORPANEL 6MG TAB be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal remedies. TORPANEL 6MG TAB can interact with other antiepileptic medications like carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, felbamate, and midazolam, potentially requiring a dose adjustment. Other medications such as rifampicin, St. John's Wort, and ketoconazole may also interact. Additionally, TORPANEL 6MG TAB may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives containing levonorgestrel, so alternative or additional birth control methods should be considered.

What precautions should be taken while on TORPANEL 6MG TAB?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking TORPANEL 6MG TAB, as it can increase the risk of seizures and intensify side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you understand how this medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness and sleepiness. Inform your doctor about any history of kidney or liver problems, depression, suicidal thoughts, alcoholism, or drug dependency. Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function may be necessary during treatment. It is important to monitor for unusual mood changes or signs of depression, including suicidal thoughts, and report them to your doctor promptly. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is recommended to manage potential weight gain.

What happens if a dose of TORPANEL 6MG TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose of TORPANEL 6MG TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. It is crucial not to skip any doses, as missing them could potentially trigger a seizure.

How should TORPANEL 6MG TAB be stored?

TORPANEL 6MG TAB should be stored at room temperature in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, light, and moisture. Always keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.