Uses of Perampanel

Perampanel is used in association with other antiepileptic drugs to treat seizures such as partial seizures (fits that affect one part of the brain) with or without secondary generalisation (fits affecting all the brain) in adults, adolescents (12 years and above) and children (4 to 11 years of age). It is also used to treat generalized seizures (fits that affect all the brain and cause convulsions or starting spells) in adults, adolescents (12 years and above) and children (7 to 11 years of age).   

Therapeutic Category

Perampanel: Anticonvulsants (Non-competitive AMPA glutamate receptor antagonist)

How Perampanel works

Perampanel works by blocking certain chemicals that regulate a broad spectrum of processes in the brain, spinal cord, retina and nerves. These chemicals are excessively produced during the sudden disruption of the brain’s normal electrical activity that results in epileptic fits. This inhibitory action enables sufficient control over seizures without substantial impairment of brain function.

Common side effects of Perampanel

• dizziness
• drowsiness
• increased or decreased appetite, weight gain
• feeling aggressive, angry, irritable, anxious or confused
• signs of ataxia, gait disturbance, balance disorder (difficulty with walking or balance)
• dysarthria (slow speech)
• diplopia (blurred vision or double vision)
• vertigo (head spinning sensation)
• nausea
• back pain
• tiredness
• headache  

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• Signs of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) known as drug hypersensitivity syndrome (widespread skin rash, high body temperature, swelling of lymph nodes and other body organs involvement)
• Signs of stevens - Johnson syndrome (serious skin rash appearing as reddish target-like circular patches with central blisters on the trunk, skin peeling, ulcers of mouth, throat, nose, genitals and eyes; and flu-like symptoms)

Health Tips for Perampanel

• Work with your healthcare physician to identify and avoid potential seizure triggers. Lack of sleep, stress, excessive alcohol usage, and missed medicine dosages are common triggers
• Prioritise adequate sleep and stress management practises. Seizures can be triggered by a lack of sleep and increased stress. Establish a regular sleep schedule and consider stress-reduction practises such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Exercise on a regular basis, as directed by your healthcare physician. Regular exercise has several health advantages, including stress reduction and improved mood
• Alcohol should be avoided or limited as it may interact with perampanel and increase the likelihood of side effects. Furthermore, certain chemicals may reduce the medication's effectiveness or cause seizures
• During seizures, epilepsy may raise the chance of an accident. Take proper measures, especially when swimming, cooking or operating heavy machinery. Inform family, friends and coworkers of your condition and what to do if you have a seizure
• Follow excellent eating practises which can improve your overall health