Vigabatrin - new data on indications and safety in paediatric epilepsy

Abstract

Introduction: Vigabatrin (VGB), a second-generation antiepileptic drug, is effective for the treatment of infantile spasms and focal seizures, primarily in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) patients. However, reports of adverse events of VGB, including VGB-associated visual field loss and brain abnormalities in neuroimaging, have raised concerns about the broader use of VGB and thus significantly limited its application.

Aim of the study: The goal of this review was to summarise the recent therapeutic guidelines, the use of VGB in focal seizures and new VGB applications as a disease-modifying treatment in TSC patients. Moreover, we discuss the current opinions on potential VGB-associated toxicity and the safety of VGB.

Keywords: VGB-associated brain abnormalities; VGB-associated visual field loss; focal seizures; infantile spasms; preventive treatment; tuberous sclerosis complex; vigabatrin.