Stiripentol

Parent or patient Information Leaflet

Dr. C. P. Ravi Kumar

Consultant Paediatric Neurologist
MRCPCH, CCT in Paediatrics (U.K.)
Fellow in Paediatric Epilepsy &
Neurology (London)

Brand names : Not available in India as of April 2020.

Stiripentol is a medicine used in specifically in treatment of Dravet’s syndrome which is a genetic condition. It is often used as an add on drug with other anti-epileptic medication.

Why is Stiripentol important for my child’s treatment?

It is important that your child takes Stiripentol regularly so that they have no Seizures or fewer seizures.

Do not stop giving Stiripentol without doctors advise, your child may have more seizures if abruptly stopped.

What is Stiripentol available as?

Stiripentol is available in the preparation of Capsules and sachets.

“Generic Vs Branded Drugs”

When should Stiripentol be given?

Twice a day; morning and evening. Ideally, 10-12 hours apart.

For example, anytime between 7 to 8 am and right after 12 hours between 7 to 8 pm. You can adjust the time slot according to your schedule.

However, there are some exceptions when your doctor may advise to give it thrice a day. Please follow your doctor’s instructions in such case.

It should ideally be given at the same time every day to establish a routine as it minimizes the chances of missing a dose.

What if I miss a dose?

Capsules and Sachets: The missed dosage can be given, if you remember to give it within a lapse of 6 hours. If you fail to give the missed dose within 6 hours, then might as well leave it. It is advisable to wait until the time of next routine dose.

Never give a double dose of Stiripentol.

If your child vomits out the content within 30 minutes of taking the medicine dosage then you can give the dose again; but if your child vomits after 30 minutes of taking the dose, then just leave it be and do not give it again.

How much of the drug should be given?

Your doctor will work out the accurate amount of Stiripentol (the dose) for your child in the prescription.

When you first start giving Stiripentol to your child, you are supposed to give them a small amount and then increase the dose little by little over a course of few days or weeks. This helps your child’s body to get use to the medicine. Your doctor will clarify what steps to take.

It is mandatory to follow the instructions given by your doctor about the dosage of medication.

Ultimately, when your child is free of seizures or convulsions (fits) and has no obvious side effects, you will know that the dosage is just correct.

How should I give the medicine? “Giving Medicines”

Tablets/Capsules: A whole tablet must be swallowed with a glass of water, juice or milk. You may give it by crushing and mixing it in water/ juice or small serving of yogurt / Curd.

Sachets: Mix the sachet in water or juice or small amount of yogurt / Curd, whatever your child prefers.

Could this medication have any side effects on my child? Side effects

Although medicines are given to make children feel better, sometimes, they may cause some unwanted side effects.

Side-effects that you must look out for – Rare

Stiripentol has mild side effects, none of them requires withdrawal of drug though.

Reduced appetite, weight loss.

Restless, unsteady gait (ataxia)

Sleep disturbance.

A fine tremor or shakiness of the hands may be seen rarely.

Other side-effects you need to know about

Your child may get these side-effects when they first start taking Stiripentol. They will be able to settle down within a course of week or so as their body gets used to the medicine. Continue to give Stiripentol to your child as your doctor has directed you to.

Your child may feel dizzy or unusually sleepy, or their behaviour may change.

Your child may feel less hungry (lose their appetite) and feel sick (nausea) or be sick (vomit). These problems may be avoided by starting with a small dose with food and gradually increasing the dosage given.

If your child starts developing skin Rash, Stop Medications right there and SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ADVICE from your DOCTOR

Sometimes your child may experience other side-effects that are not listed above. If you notice any abnormalities with your child’s body or behavior, do not hesitate and immediately contact your doctor.

Despite this list of side effects, Stiripentol is a very effective anti-epileptic (anticonvulsant) medicine in Dravet’s Syndrome.

Is it OKAY to give other medicines while my child is taking Stiripentol ?

Medications like ibuprofen, paracetamol, antibiotics or any of the other over the counter medicines can be given when necessary, except the ones your doctor has prohibited you from.

Consult with your doctor before giving any other medicines to your child. This includes herbal or complementary medicines.

Some other medicines used to treat epilepsy may affect how well Stiripentol works or may cause side effects. If your child is experiencing more fits or seizures, or any other side effects after using other medications, talk to your doctor immediately.

Where should I keep the medication?

Keep the medicine in a cupboard, secured away from heat and direct sunlight. It is not a must to keep the medicine in the refrigerator though.

Make sure the medicine is out of your child’s reach.

Store the medication in the same box it was packed in.

For more information please refer to the manufacturer’s information leaflet.

References :

1. IAP Drug Formulary Web Update 2020(3) Edition 58, https://www.iapdrugformulary.com/Home
2. Consumer Medicines Information (CMI), https://www.tga.gov.au/consumer-medicines-information-cmi
3. British National Formulary for Children (BNFC)
4. Food and Drug Administration, USA https://www.fda.gov