Why is this medication prescribed?

Wakix (pitolisant) is a medication used to treat narcolepsy, which is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep. It is specifically indicated for the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in adult patients with narcolepsy.

Wakix works as a histamine H3-receptor antagonist and inverse agonist, promoting wakefulness by increasing the release of histamine in the brain.

How should this medicine be used?

As for how Wakix should be used, it’s essential to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions carefully. Here are general guidelines, but your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your specific condition:

• Dosage: The typical starting dose of Wakix is 17.8 mg once daily in the morning. The doctor may titrate the dose based on individual response and tolerability.
• Administration: Wakix is usually taken orally with or without food.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be skipped, and the next dose should be taken at the regular time. A double dose should not be taken to make up for a missed one.
• Titration: Your doctor may adjust the dose gradually, depending on your response and tolerance. It’s important to communicate any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider.
• Duration: Continue taking Wakix as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better. Abruptly stopping the medication may lead to a return of symptoms.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, Wakix can have side effects. Common side effects may include insomnia, headache, nausea, and anxiety. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, notify your healthcare provider.
• Precautions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Certain medications may interact with Wakix.

It’s important to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor while taking Wakix to monitor your response to the medication and address any concerns or side effects. If you have any questions or concerns about your prescription, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

The primary approved use for Wakix (pitolisant) is in the treatment of narcolepsy to address excessive daytime sleepiness. However, it’s essential to note that medication approvals and indications may change over time, so it’s advisable to check the latest prescribing information or consult with a healthcare professional for the most current details.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Wakix, here are some general considerations:

• Medical History: Before starting Wakix, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any existing medical conditions or allergies. This information can help the doctor assess the appropriateness of Wakix for your situation.
• Medication Interactions: Provide a list of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking. Certain drugs may interact with Wakix, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor. The potential risks and benefits of using Wakix during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully evaluated.
• Liver Impairment: Wakix is metabolized in the liver, so individuals with liver impairment may require dosage adjustments. Your doctor will consider your liver function before prescribing Wakix.
• Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants: Exercise caution when combining Wakix with other drugs that have CNS depressant effects, as this may increase the risk of sedation.
• Alcohol: It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Wakix, as alcohol may enhance the sedative effects of the medication.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Wakix can cause drowsiness and affect alertness. It’s important to assess your individual response to the medication before engaging in activities that require full attention, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to pitolisant or any of the ingredients in Wakix, you should not use the medication.

These precautions are general in nature, and individual circumstances may vary. It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and communicate openly about any concerns or potential side effects you may experience while taking Wakix. Always seek medical advice if you have questions or if you are unsure about any aspect of your treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Wakix. However, it’s essential to follow a balanced and healthy diet as part of your overall well-being. If there are any updates or changes in dietary recommendations for Wakix, your healthcare provider will provide the necessary information.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Wakix:

• Take It as Soon as You Remember: If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible.
• Skip the Missed Dose If It’s Almost Time for the Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Do Not Take Extra Doses: Taking extra doses can increase the risk of side effects and may not improve your symptoms.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Wakix (pitolisant) may cause side effects, and it’s important to be aware of them. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. If you are prescribed Wakix, your healthcare provider will monitor you for potential side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with Wakix:

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep may occur.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect.
• Nausea: Wakix may cause feelings of nausea in some individuals.
• Anxiety: Anxiety or increased nervousness has been reported.
• Irritability: Some individuals may experience irritability as a side effect.
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdominal area is a possible side effect.
• Elevated Liver Enzymes: In some cases, Wakix may cause an increase in liver enzymes. Regular monitoring may be recommended.
• Hallucinations: Rarely, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there) have been reported.
• Depression: In some cases, Wakix may lead to depressive symptoms.
• Increased Heart Rate: An elevated heart rate or palpitations may occur.
• Fatigue: Paradoxically, some individuals may experience fatigue.

It’s important to note that these lists are not exhaustive, and individuals may react differently to the medication. Additionally, the frequency and severity of side effects may depend on factors such as the individual’s overall health, other medications being taken, and the dosage of Wakix.

If you experience any side effects while taking Wakix, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on whether any adjustments to the treatment plan are necessary. If you have concerns or questions about the side effects of Wakix, discussing them with your healthcare provider is the best course of action. They can provide personalized information based on your health history and specific circumstances.

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

Here are general guidelines for the storage and disposal of Yervoy:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Wakix at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Protection from Light and Moisture: Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from light and moisture.
  • Childproof Container: Keep Wakix in a child-resistant container and out of reach of children.
• Disposal:
  • Follow Local Guidelines: Dispose of unused or expired medications according to local guidelines or regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.
  • Community Disposal Programs: Many communities have drug take-back programs or special disposal containers for medication. Check with your local pharmacy or law enforcement agency for information on disposal options in your area.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Significant increase in side effects: Such as severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, etc.
• Difficulty Breathing: If breathing becomes difficult, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Wakix and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Avoid Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Wakix, and use caution when combining it with other drugs that have central nervous system depressant effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Wakix. This includes dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Drowsiness and Impaired Alertness: Wakix can cause drowsiness and affect alertness. Avoid activities that require full attention, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how Wakix affects you.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as certain medications may interact with Wakix.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the use of Wakix. If you have specific questions or concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.