Perampanel

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Anticonvulsant	Fycompa®, Perampanel	Adult, Children

Perampanel - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Perampanel cause?

Like all medicines, this medication may cause some possible side effects but not everyone experiences them. Consult your healthcare professional if any of the side effects lasts more than a few days or become severe and bothersome.

The common side effects of perampanel include:

Dizziness, unsteady movements

Get up slowly from sitting or lying down position

Drowsiness, fatigue

Avoid driving, operating machinery or engaging in strenuous physical activities
Avoid taking over-the-counter medications (such as cold or allergy medications) that could also add on to the drowsiness, refer to a healthcare professional if needed

Headache

Use of paracetamol can help to relieve headache

Unusual behavioral changes such as anxiety, irritability, aggression

If the following serious side effects happen, you should go to the emergency department:

Skin rash, itchy or peeling skin
Worsening aggression or hostility

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following and requires an emergency department visit:

Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Before taking Perampanel , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professionals if you have the following medical conditions before starting on perampanel:

Kidney problems
Liver problems
Any illnesses with symptoms of psychiatric and/or suicidal ideation
Drug allergies to perampanel

For women: Tell your doctor if you are currently or intending to get pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

Consult your healthcare professional immediately if your seizures get worse or become different after you start on this medication.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Perampanel ?

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.

Perampanel may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, patches, rings, injections, implants or intrauterine devices). Discuss with your healthcare professionals regarding birth control while on perampanel.

Please consult your healthcare professionals before using any other medications, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal products.