Information about Rufinamide

Generic Name : Rufinamide
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Rufinamide are provided here.

Pronunciation : roo-FIN-a-mide

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Rufinamide, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y46.6 Therapeutic Classification : Anticonvulsants

Trade Names/Brand Names of Rufinamide

International :

Banzel

Why is Rufinamide Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in children 4 years and older and adults. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.

When should Rufinamide not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with familial short QT syndrome and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Rufinamide?

Patient with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome Initial: The recommended dose is 10 mg/kg/day administered in two equally divided doses.
The dose should be increased by approximately 10 mg/kg increments every other day to a target dose of 45 mg/kg/day or 3200 mg/day.
Adults: Initial: The recommended dose is 400-800 mg/day administered in two equally divided doses. The dose should be increased by 400-800 mg every other day until a maximum daily dose of 3200 mg/day.

How should Rufinamide be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Rufinamide?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of mental or mood problems, suicidal thoughts, heart problems, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children less than 4 years old, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Avoid excess dosage.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of suicidal thoughts, watch them carefully.

What are the side effects of Rufinamide?

Most Common- Drowsiness.
Central Nervous System- Headache, fatigue, dizziness, incoordination, aggression and tremor.
Gastrointestinal- Vomiting, nausea, upper abdominal pain, constipation and indigestion.
Skin- Rash and itching.
Respiratory- Inflammation of bronchus/sinus/nasopharynx.
Eye and ENT- Ear infection, blurred vision and night blindness.
Miscellaneous- Back pain and fainting.

What are the other precautions for Rufinamide?

If condition worsens consult with your doctor.
It may affect the effect of hormonal birth control pills; use proper method to prevent pregnancy.
Monitor complete blood cell counts and liver function while taking this medication.