Group
Antiepileptic drug (triazole derivative)
Mechanism of Action
Prolongs the inactive state of voltage-gated sodium channels, stabilizing neuronal membranes and limiting repetitive firing of neurons.
Indications
- Lennox–Gastaut syndrome (adjunctive therapy)
- Partial-onset seizures (adjunctive therapy in some countries)
Dose
- Adults: Start 400 mg/day orally in 2 divided doses; may increase by 200 mg/day every 2 days to maintenance of 800–3200 mg/day.
- Children (≥4 years): Weight-based dosing; typically 10–45 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses.
Major Side Effects
- Dizziness, headache
- Fatigue, somnolence
- Nausea, vomiting
- QT interval shortening (rare)
- Skin rash (rare, may require discontinuation)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rufinamide
- Familial short QT syndrome
Compatible Fluid
Oral tablets – no IV preparation; compatible with water or swallowed with liquid.
Route of Administration
- Oral (tablet or suspension)
Type of Administration
Chronic therapy – given in divided doses for maintenance treatment of seizures.