DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Dalfampridine

March 21, 2017

Dalfampridine Oral tablet, extended-release

What is this medicine?

DALFAMPRIDINE (dal FAM pri deen) may help improve walking in patients with multiple sclerosis.This medicine is not a cure.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • kidney disease

  • seizures

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to dalfampridine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not cut, crush, chew, or dissolve this medicine. You can take it with or without food.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. Do not take double or extra doses. Do not take more than 2 tablets in a 24-hour period. Separate each tablet by 12 hours.

What may interact with this medicine?

Other forms of dalfampridine such as 4-aminopyridine such as 4-AP or fampridine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • confusion

  • pain in the lower back or side

  • pain when urinating

  • seizures

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):

  • constipation

  • nausea

  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

  • trouble sleeping

  • unusually weak or tired

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert