WARNING

Fycompa (perampanel) is a medication used to treat seizures in epilepsy. Like all medications, it comes with potential risks and side effects. Here are some of the key risks associated with taking Fycompa:

• Dizziness and Drowsiness: Fycompa can cause dizziness and drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It’s important to avoid activities that require mental alertness until you know how Fycompa affects you.
• Increased Risk of Falls: Due to its effects on balance and coordination, Fycompa may increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults.
• Behavioral and Psychiatric Symptoms: Some people may experience mood changes, agitation, aggression, irritability, anxiety, or other psychiatric symptoms while taking Fycompa. It’s essential to monitor for these changes and report them to your healthcare provider.
• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: In rare cases, Fycompa may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in individuals with a history of depression or other mental health conditions. Close monitoring is crucial, especially when starting or changing the dosage of Fycompa.
• Serious Skin Reactions: Fycompa may rarely cause serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, which are potentially life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of skin reaction, including rash, blistering, or peeling.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to Fycompa, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Drug Interactions: Fycompa may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Fycompa can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when discontinuing Fycompa or changing the dosage.
• Bone Health: Long-term use of Fycompa may be associated with decreased bone mineral density, increasing the risk of fractures. Discuss with your healthcare provider about strategies to maintain bone health while taking Fycompa.

It’s important to weigh the potential benefits of Fycompa in managing seizures against these risks. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and report any concerning symptoms promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Fycompa (perampanel) is prescribed primarily for the treatment of epilepsy, specifically for controlling seizures in patients who have partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalized seizures. It is also indicated for the treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients with epilepsy aged 12 years and older.

How should this medicine be used?

Fycompa (generic name: perampanel) is a medication primarily used for the treatment of seizures associated with epilepsy. It’s important to note that Fycompa should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, typically a neurologist or epileptologist.

Here are general guidelines for the use of Fycompa:

• Dosage: The dosage of Fycompa can vary depending on various factors such as the patient’s age, weight, other medications they are taking, and the type of seizures being treated. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Administration: Fycompa is usually taken orally in the form of tablets or oral suspension. It’s typically taken once daily, either with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It’s important to take it consistently at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in your bloodstream.
• Titration: When starting Fycompa treatment, your doctor may initiate therapy at a low dose and gradually increase the dosage over time. This process is known as titration and helps minimize the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Your doctor will likely monitor your response to Fycompa closely, especially during the titration period. They may adjust your dosage based on how well you tolerate the medication and how effectively it controls your seizures.
• Adherence: It’s essential to take Fycompa exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Missing doses or taking more than prescribed can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, Fycompa can cause side effects. Common side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, irritability, and difficulty with coordination. If you experience any concerning side effects, contact your doctor.
• Precautions: Before starting Fycompa, inform your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Fycompa may interact with certain medications, so it’s essential to disclose all medications you are currently using.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Fycompa suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can increase the risk of seizures. If you and your doctor decide to discontinue Fycompa, they will provide guidance on how to gradually taper off the medication.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about using Fycompa.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses may include:

• Generalized seizures: Fycompa may be considered as an adjunctive treatment for generalized seizures in certain cases, although its efficacy for this indication is still being studied.
• Mood disorders: There is some research suggesting that Fycompa may have potential benefits in treating mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. However, more studies are needed to establish its efficacy and safety for these conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when taking Fycompa, here are some important considerations:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Fycompa during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well-established, and the potential risks to the fetus or infant should be carefully considered.
• Liver Function: Fycompa is metabolized in the liver, so it may need to be used with caution in individuals with impaired liver function. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage accordingly or monitor liver function tests during treatment.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Fycompa can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and other central nervous system side effects. Use caution when performing activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how Fycompa affects you.
• Psychiatric Symptoms: Some people may experience mood changes, agitation, aggression, or other psychiatric symptoms while taking Fycompa. It’s important to monitor for these changes and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Drug Interactions: Fycompa may interact with other medications, including certain antiepileptic drugs and central nervous system depressants. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Withdrawal: Do not stop taking Fycompa abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms or an increase in seizure frequency. Your healthcare provider will provide guidance on how to safely discontinue Fycompa if needed.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations regarding the use of Fycompa, and report any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Fycompa, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, as you would normally. If you have any concerns about diet and Fycompa, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Fycompa:

• If it’s within 6 hours of your regular dosing time: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then, continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• If it’s more than 6 hours before your next dose: Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fycompa (perampanel) can cause a range of side effects, some of which may be common, while others are less frequent but more severe. Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
• Drowsiness: Feeling sleepy or fatigued.
• Irritability: Feeling easily annoyed or agitated.
• Fatigue: Experiencing tiredness or weakness.
• Headache: Aching or discomfort in the head.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to the stomach or experiencing the urge to vomit.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Balance disorder: Feeling unsteady or having difficulty maintaining balance.
• Vertigo: Sensation of spinning or dizziness.
• Double vision: Seeing two images of a single object.
• Difficulty with coordination: Reduced ability to coordinate movements.
• Anxiety: Feeling nervous or anxious.

Less common but more severe side effects may include:

• Serious allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction.
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior: Some individuals may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially at the beginning of treatment or when changing the dosage. Seek medical help if you notice changes in mood or behavior.
• Mood changes: Fycompa can sometimes cause mood swings, aggression, agitation, or other changes in behavior. Report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider.
• Serious skin reactions: Rarely, Fycompa may cause severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. These are potentially life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention.

It’s important to report any side effects you experience while taking Fycompa to your healthcare provider. They can help assess the severity of the side effects and provide guidance on managing them. Additionally, if you have any concerns about the side effects of Fycompa, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting the medication.

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

Storage of Fycompa:

• Room Temperature: Store Fycompa tablets and oral suspension at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Keep Container Closed: Keep Fycompa in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from moisture and air.
• Avoid Light: Store Fycompa away from direct sunlight or bright light.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Fycompa in a location where children or pets cannot reach it.
• Do Not Freeze: Do not freeze Fycompa oral suspension.

Disposal of Fycompa:

• Follow Instructions: Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Medication Take-Back Programs: Dispose of unused or expired Fycompa through a medication take-back program or a DEA-authorized collector.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush Fycompa tablets or oral suspension down the toilet unless instructed to do so by local guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose of Fycompa or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or seizures, seek emergency medical help immediately.
• Call Poison Control: If someone has overdosed and is conscious and alert, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do next.
• Do Not Attempt to Treat Symptoms at Home: Do not attempt to treat symptoms of overdose at home without medical supervision.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Take Fycompa exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Fycompa and to check for any side effects or complications.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Fycompa, including dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Fycompa, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.
• Medical Alert: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace indicating that you are taking Fycompa in case of emergencies.
• Keep a List of Medications: Keep a list of all medications you are taking, including Fycompa, and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, or use of Fycompa.