Vigabatrin
Vigabatrin is an antiepileptic medication primarily used to treat refractory seizures and infantile spasms in patients who have not responded to other treatments. It works by irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme GABA transaminase, thereby increasing levels of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the brain to reduce seizure activity.
Vigabatrin is an antiepileptic drug that increases GABA levels in the brain to help control seizures, typically used when other medications have failed.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N03AG04
- RxNorm
- 14851
- Generic
- Vigabatrin
- Class
- atc-n03
- Brands
- Sabril, Vigadrone, Vigpoder, Vigafyde
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution, 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.
Vigabatrin is used to treat infantile spasms and as add-on therapy for refractory complex partial seizures in patients who have not responded adequately to other antiepileptic medications.
Vigabatrin acts as an irreversible inhibitor of gamma-aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T), the enzyme responsible for breaking down GABA. By blocking this enzyme, vigabatrin increases GABA concentrations in the brain, enhancing its inhibitory effects and reducing seizure activity.
Vigabatrin carries a risk of permanent vision loss and is typically reserved for patients with refractory conditions who have failed other treatments. Due to the irreversible nature of GABA-T inhibition, enzyme activity only returns gradually after discontinuation. Regular ophthalmologic monitoring is required during treatment.
Official drug label
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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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy