Tiagabine
Tiagabine is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used as adjunctive therapy to control partial seizures in patients with epilepsy who are not adequately controlled on other antiepileptic drugs. It works by blocking the reuptake of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter, thereby increasing GABA levels in the brain and reducing neuronal excitability. This medication is typically reserved for patients 12 years and older when standard first-line treatments have proven insufficient.
Tiagabine is an add-on anticonvulsant used to help control partial seizures by increasing GABA neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N03AG06
- RxNorm
- 31914
- Generic
- Tiagabine
- Class
- atc-n03a
- Brands
- Gabitril
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Adjunctive treatment for partial seizures in adults and children 12 years and older with epilepsy. Not intended for monotherapy and reserved for patients whose seizures are not adequately controlled with other antiepileptic medications.
Tiagabine inhibits the reuptake of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) into presynaptic neurons and glial cells. By blocking GABA reuptake, it increases the concentration of GABA in synaptic clefts, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission and reducing excessive neuronal firing associated with seizures.
May cause dizziness, drowsiness, and visual disturbances; avoid operating machinery until effects are known. Can increase risk of new or worsening seizures in some patients, including non-convulsive status epilepticus. Requires gradual dose titration to minimize adverse effects. Not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment. May interact with other antiepileptic drugs and certain antibiotics.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy