Torpanel 2

TORPANEL 2 Tablet

TORPANEL 2 Tablet, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is an antiepileptic medication primarily used to manage seizures.

• Composition: Each tablet contains Perampanel 2 mg.

• Uses: TORPANEL 2 is prescribed for the management of epilepsy. It is used to control partial-onset seizures, with or without secondary generalization, in individuals aged 4 years and above. It also helps in managing primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures in those aged 12 years and above. This medicine works by selectively blocking AMPA receptors in the brain, thereby stabilizing electrical activity and helping to control seizures.

• Dosage and Administration: TORPANEL 2 Tablet should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional. It can be taken with or without food, but it is best to take it at the same time each day, preferably before bedtime. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken. The usual starting dose for adults is 2 mg once daily, and the dose may be gradually increased by a doctor, with a maximum recommended dose of 12 mg per day. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting a doctor, as this may increase seizure frequency.

• Side Effects: Common side effects include dizziness, somnolence (sleepiness), fatigue, irritability, nausea, headache, weight gain, and back pain. Other common side effects may include changes in appetite, aggression, anxiety, confusion, ataxia (difficulty with coordination, balance, and speech), blurred or double vision, and vertigo. Serious side effects can include severe skin rashes like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and psychiatric/behavioral changes such as aggression or suicidal thoughts.

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: TORPANEL 2 is not recommended during pregnancy, and women of child-bearing potential should use reliable contraception. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding as it is excreted in breast milk.
  • Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can exacerbate side effects like dizziness and sleepiness.
  • Driving and Machinery: Due to potential dizziness and drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medicine affects you.
  • Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems and inform your doctor if you have a history of substance abuse or suicidal thoughts.
  • Drug Interactions: TORPANEL 2 may interact with hormonal contraceptives (e.g., levonorgestrel) and certain anti-epileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, oxcarbazepine, felbamate). It can also interact with CYP3A4 inducers like rifampicin and St. John's wort, and CNS depressants.

• Storage: Store TORPANEL 2 Tablet at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C or below 30°C. Keep it shielded from excessive light and moisture, and securely out of children's reach.

TORPANEL 2, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., contains Perampanel and is an antiepileptic medication used to manage seizures. Here are some frequently asked questions about this medicine:

What is TORPANEL 2 used for?

TORPANEL 2 is an antiepileptic medication primarily used to manage seizures in individuals with epilepsy. It is prescribed for partial-onset seizures, with or without secondary generalization, in patients aged 4 years and above, and for primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures in individuals aged 12 years and above.

How does TORPANEL 2 work?

The active ingredient in TORPANEL 2, perampanel, works by selectively blocking alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in the brain. These glutamate receptors are involved in neurological processes and excitatory signaling that can lead to seizures. By reducing the activity of AMPA receptors, TORPANEL 2 helps stabilize the brain's electrical activity and control seizures.

What is the usual dosage for TORPANEL 2?

The usual starting dosage for adults is 2 mg once daily, typically taken at bedtime. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose based on your response and tolerance, up to a maximum recommended dose of 12 mg per day. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, and it can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.

What are the possible side effects of TORPANEL 2?

Common side effects include dizziness, somnolence (sleepiness), fatigue, irritability, falls, nausea, headache, ataxia (coordination, balance, and speech disorders), weight gain, and back pain. More serious side effects can involve psychiatric and behavioral changes, such as aggression, anger, hostility, and in rare cases, suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Is TORPANEL 2 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

TORPANEL 2 is generally not recommended during pregnancy, and caution is advised as animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby. It is also likely unsafe during breastfeeding because it can be excreted in breast milk and may harm the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use reliable contraception during treatment and for one month after discontinuing the medication.

Can TORPANEL 2 be taken with other medications?

TORPANEL 2 can interact with several medications. It may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, such as those containing levonorgestrel. Medications that induce CYP3A4, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and St. John's wort, can decrease the concentration of perampanel and reduce its efficacy. Additionally, Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants like phenobarbital and zolpidem may have additive effects when used with TORPANEL 2.

What precautions should be taken while using TORPANEL 2?

It is important to avoid alcohol while taking TORPANEL 2, as it can increase dizziness and sleepiness. Caution is advised for patients with liver or kidney impairment, a history of substance abuse, or those experiencing suicidal thoughts. Since the medication can cause dizziness and drowsiness, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not stop taking TORPANEL 2 suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can increase seizure frequency and lead to withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, nervousness, and irritability.

What happens if a dose of TORPANEL 2 is missed?

If you forget to take a dose of TORPANEL 2, 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 the missed one.

How should TORPANEL 2 be stored?

TORPANEL 2 tablets should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C. It should be shielded from excessive light and moisture and kept securely out of the reach of children. Always ensure the medicine is used before its expiry date.