Perampanel/Fycompa

[masterjen]

Anyone here taking this medication? Any comments about it?
I read the threads that came up from doing a search, but just wondering if anyone has anything else to add, or an update as to how they are doing on it.
My neurologist is interested in me giving it a shot.

 

[Nakamova]

Its Black Box warning is a little scary. Sounds like it may affect some people the way Keppra does.

WARNING: SERIOUS PSYCHIATRIC AND BEHAVIORAL REACTIONS
• Serious or life-threatening psychiatric and behavioral adverse reactions including aggression, hostility, irritability, anger, and homicidal ideation and threats have been reported in patients taking FYCOMPA (5.1)
• Monitor patients for these reactions as well as for changes in mood, behavior, or personality that are not typical for the patient, particularly during the titration period and at higher doses (5.1)
• FYCOMPA should be reduced if these symptoms occur and should be discontinued immediately if symptoms are severe or are worsening (5.1)

 

[masterjen]

That IS scary!!! I didn't have any problems when I was on Keppra, but I know that isn't relevant since these are two entirely different drugs. Hmmm - I don't like the sounds of this one AT ALL.

 

[Nakamova]

To be fair, they have to list everything that's reported as a side effect, so it's possible only a tiny fraction of patients experienced the homicidal rage (and that was probably in the neurologist's office.)

The studies I checked out suggested that it's no magic bullet though. Folks who responded had their seizures reduced (by about 30%), but not stopped altogether. Doesn't mean it's not worth trying if everything else has come up short. It apparently works with the brain's glutamate receptors, so if you've noticed a glutamate sensitivity it might be a good fit.

 

[masterjen]

To be fair, they have to list everything that's reported as a side effect, so it's possible only a tiny fraction of patients experienced the homicidal rage (and that was probably in the neurologist's office.)
LOL! Or when spending time with their sister in law . . . :roflmao:

The studies I checked out suggested that it's no magic bullet though. Folks who responded had their seizures reduced (by about 30%), but not stopped altogether. Doesn't mean it's not worth trying if everything else has come up short. It apparently works with the brain's glutamate receptors, so if you've noticed a glutamate sensitivity it might be a good fit.

No, I don't think I have a glutamate sensitivity.
I have an appointment with my geneticist/metabolic/mitochondrial specialist very soon, and she is the one handling the neurotransmitter replacement treatment (glutamate is not one of them). I think I'll get her opinion before proceeding with the Perampanel. The two docs do work together usually, but I'm not sure if this new medication was a mutual decision or not.