Staples asked
What Is Fycompa?
Answer
Fycompa (perampanel) is a anti-epileptic drug and is the first in a new class of drugs for the disease. It is the first glutamate receptor antagonist (technically is is a selective, non-competitive ionotropic alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazoleproprionic acid (AMPA) receptor antagonist). Glutamate, very simply, is known as a excitatory neurotransmitter and it plays a key role in the development of seizures and the spreading of seizures thus the blocking of it has a role in therapy. Currently, it is indicated for refractory partial onset seizures and studies show it may be beneficial in those that are resistant to benzodiazepines.
There are some downsides to the drug however. It carries a black box warning for neuropsychiatric adverse events, which can be life-threatening. it also is associated with a high incidence of adverse effects that may affect balance and coordination. In addition, you want to watch out for Hostility, aggression in patients taking the medication. Other possible side effects include: Dizziness, vertigo, ataxia, sedation, fatigue, irritability, nausea and weight gain.
It is classified as a controlled substance and is a schedule III drug. This is due to possible euphoria and abuse.
Also, Fycompa is known to have a major interaction with birth control medication. Studies have shown that it can reduce the efficacy of levonorgestrel-containing contraceptives when perampanel is dosed at 12 mg/day.
