Drug Safety Alert | Anti-Seizure Drug Potiga has New Black Box Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a drug safety change for the anti-seizure drug, Potiga (ezogabine) yesterday (10-31-2013). This new label is the most serious boxed warning the FDA gives.
Risks Potiga could cause:
- retinal abnormalities
- potential vision loss
- skin discoloration
These effects may be permanent.
The FDA advises that:
Potiga use be limited to patients who have not responded adequately to several alternative therapies to decrease the frequency of seizures, or epilepsy, and for whom the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks.
Before taking Potiga one should get their eyes checked and see an ophthalmic professional. If a patient cannot have their vision checked during treatment it is advised they should not take Potiga.
Patients that are currently taking Potiga should consult with their health care professionals to ensure that they should continue with this drug and that the benefits of treatment outweighs the risks.
Another component of the updated label is the warning of the skin, nail, mucous, membrane, and white-of-the-eye discoloration. The recommendation is to seek an alternative medication if the previously stated does occur.
ZKB Law has worked on behalf of individuals and their families affected by dangerous medications since 1988. You can call the firm toll free at (888) 841-9623 or online by submitting the free case evaluation form found on this page. If you questions or concerns contact an attorney at Zoll, Kranz & Borgess, LLC.