Why is this medication prescribed?

Pitolisant is a medication that is primarily prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy, a chronic neurological disorder that affects the control of sleep and wakefulness. Narcolepsy is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden and uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep, and disruptions in the normal sleep-wake cycle. Pitolisant works by increasing the release of histamine in the brain, which helps to promote wakefulness.

How should this medicine be used?

Pitolisant is a medication prescribed to treat excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy in adults. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the proper use of Pitolisant. Below are general guidelines, but individual prescriptions may vary, so always follow your doctor’s advice:

• Dosage: Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs and response to the medication. The usual starting dose is 17.8 mg taken once daily in the morning.
• Administration: Pitolisant is taken orally, usually with or without food. It is typically taken in the morning to help manage excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose: Take Pitolisant exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less of the medication than recommended.
• Consistency: Try to take Pitolisant at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage based on your response to the medication and address any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.
• Inform your healthcare provider: Inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or health conditions you have before starting Pitolisant. Certain medications may interact with Pitolisant, so it’s essential to provide a comprehensive medical history.
• Report any side effects: If you experience any side effects or have concerns about the medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your response to Pitolisant and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.

Always refer to the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the official prescribing information for Pitolisant. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of this medication, it’s essential to discuss them with your healthcare professional.

Other uses for this medicine

Pitolisant is primarily used for the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy in adults. However, it’s important to note that new uses or indications for medications may have been approved or discovered after that date. Always consult with a healthcare professional or check the latest medical literature for the most up-to-date information on medication uses.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Pitolisant, here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you may have, especially if you are allergic to Pitolisant or any of its ingredients.
• Medical History: Provide a detailed medical history to your healthcare provider, including any history of heart problems, liver disease, or psychiatric conditions. Pitolisant should be used with caution in patients with certain pre-existing conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Pitolisant during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established, and your healthcare provider will weigh the potential risks and benefits before prescribing it.
• Drug Interactions: Pitolisant may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and prescription medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Pitolisant may cause dizziness or affect alertness. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Pitolisant, as alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of the medication.
• Kidney and Liver Function: Pitolisant is metabolized in the liver, so it’s important to monitor liver function regularly. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage if you have liver impairment.
• Psychiatric Effects: Pitolisant may cause psychiatric side effects, including anxiety, insomnia, and hallucinations. Report any changes in mood or behavior to your healthcare provider.

These are general precautions, and individual circumstances may vary. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly. If you have specific concerns or questions about Pitolisant, discuss them with your healthcare professional.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Pitolisant. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet as part of an overall wellness plan.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Pitolisant, 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 double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Pitolisant, like any medication, may cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. It’s important to note that the following list is not exhaustive, and you should consult with your healthcare provider for more detailed information. Common side effects of Pitolisant may include:

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep may occur, especially if the medication is taken too close to bedtime.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect of Pitolisant.
• Nausea: Feelings of nausea or upset stomach may occur.
• Anxiety: Pitolisant may cause or exacerbate feelings of anxiety in some individuals.
• Irritability: Some individuals may experience increased irritability.
• Abnormal Liver Function Tests: Pitolisant may lead to elevated liver enzymes, so regular monitoring of liver function may be required.
• Increased Heart Rate: Pitolisant may cause an increase in heart rate (tachycardia).
• Hallucinations: Some individuals may experience visual or auditory hallucinations.
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdominal area may occur.
• Dry Mouth: Pitolisant may cause dry mouth as a side effect.

It’s crucial to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, this is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects, and other side effects may occur. If you have specific concerns about the side effects of Pitolisant, discuss them with your healthcare professional. They can provide guidance based on your individual health status and help determine the most appropriate course of action.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Pitolisant:

• Storage:
  • Store Pitolisant at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep the medication in its original container, away from moisture, heat, and light.
  • Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired Pitolisant in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
  • Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for information on how to properly dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or emergency medical services immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include increased heart rate, severe restlessness, hallucinations, and other adverse effects.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage based on your response to the medication.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function regularly, as Pitolisant is metabolized in the liver.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Pitolisant, as it may enhance the sedative effects of the medication.
• Driving and Machinery: Pitolisant may cause dizziness or affect alertness. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Pitolisant, including dentists and emergency medical professionals.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult with them or a pharmacist if you have specific questions or concerns about Pitolisant. This information is a general guide, and individual circumstances may vary.