Fintepla (Fenfluramine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Fintepla Used For?
Fintepla is an oral solution that contains fenfluramine, which is used to help manage seizures in children and adults with specific types of epilepsy.
Primary Uses
Fintepla is primarily used to treat seizures associated with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
How It Works
Fenfluramine works by increasing serotonin activity in the brain, which helps to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
Good to know: Fintepla is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Fintepla
Fintepla is taken as an oral solution, and the dosage is based on body weight.
Dosage Instructions
The starting dose is low and may be gradually increased. The maximum dose is 6 mL twice a day, or 4 mL twice a day if taking stiripentol.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
Important: Never take more than the prescribed dose, as it may lead to serious side effects.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
- weight loss
- constipation
- loss of appetite
- feeling tired
- chest infections
- trembling of hands or legs
- irritability
- lethargy
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, high temperature)
- allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat)
- valvular heart disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension (shortness of breath, chest pain)
Impulse Control Issues
Patients should be aware of potential impulse control issues, including increased risk of gambling or spending problems.
Important Warnings
There are significant warnings associated with Fintepla, particularly regarding heart health.
Who Should Not Take Fintepla
Do not use Fintepla if you or your child have had an allergic reaction to fenfluramine, have heart valve problems, pulmonary arterial hypertension, or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last 2 weeks.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of glaucoma, depression, mood disorders, kidney or liver problems with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Fintepla is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and caution is advised if breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Fintepla may interact with other medications, affecting how they work.
Grapefruit interaction: Consult your doctor if you consume grapefruit, as it may affect how Fintepla works.
- stiripentol
- triptans
- MAOIs
- SNRIs
- SSRIs
- carbamazepine
- primidone
- rifampicin
- phenobarbital
- phenytoin
- efavirenz
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised regarding alcohol consumption and driving while taking Fintepla.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol as it may increase drowsiness when taking Fintepla.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how Fintepla affects you.
Temperature Regulation
Be aware of potential issues with body temperature regulation while on this medication.
Storage
Store Fintepla below 30°C, away from light, and out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, contact your doctor or local emergency services immediately, even if no symptoms are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Fintepla to work can vary, but it is typically used to help reduce seizure frequency over time.
Yes, Fintepla can be taken with food or between meals.
No, Fintepla is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Fintepla without consulting your doctor, as this may increase the risk of seizures.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Fintepla, as it may increase drowsiness.
Fintepla may cause weight loss as a side effect.
Elderly patients should use Fintepla with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.