Dalfampridine, Ampyra/Fampyra
Description: Potassium Channel Blocker
Brand Name US: Ampyra
Canadian Equivalent: Fampyra
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Dalfampridine, Ampyra/Fampyra is a potassium channel blocker that improves conduction in focally demyelinated axons by delaying repolarization and prolonging the duration of action potentials. Enhanced neuronal conduction is thought to strengthen skeletal muscle fibre twitch activity, thereby, improving peripheral motor neurologic function.
Indications For Use
Improve walking in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS)
Precautions
Before starting Dalfampridine, Ampyra/Fampyra make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Dalfampridine, Ampyra/Fampyra is generally well tolerated; however, there are a few risks to take into consideration. Seizures may occur within days to weeks after treatment initiation and have been reported more frequently in patients with no history of seizures. Discontinue use and do not reinitiate therapy if a seizure occurs during treatment. Use Dalfampridine, Ampyra/Fampyra with caution in patients with renal impairment because of the higher risk of seizure and other adverse events, primarily neurologic effects, due to increased serum concentrations.
Usual Dosing
Oral: 10mg every 12 hours.
Missed doses: Do not administer double or extra doses if a dose is missed.
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take: Take with or without food. Do not chew, crush, dissolve, or divide the tablet.
Side Effects
Urinary tract infection, insomnia, dizziness, headache, paresthesia, weakness, back pain, nasopharyngitis, pharyngolaryngeal pain.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Dalfampridine, Ampyra/Fampyra only common ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would my physician prescribe a medication with such serious side effects?
Your physician takes the most recent clinical guidelines to make evidence-based decisions on what medication is appropriate in which situations. Your current medications, your allergies, age, cost of medication, comorbid conditions and many other factors will further complicate or limit which medications are appropriate. This medication is used to improve movement in multiple sclerosis which is has limited treatment options and your physician has determined the benefits outweigh the risks. Furthermore, they will be monitoring your bloodwork and symptoms closely to avoid many of the serious side effects and will keep you on the lowest effective dosage for the shortest amount of time possible.