What is a potential severe side effect of Sabril (vigabatrin)?

Sabril, which contains the active ingredient vigabatrin, is known for its potential to cause permanent vision loss, specifically peripheral vision loss, in some patients. This side effect results from the drug's impact on retinal cells, making the risk of visual impairment a significant concern.

Because this side effect can be irreversible and may occur even at therapeutic doses, healthcare providers closely monitor patients while they are on this medication. Regular vision examinations are often recommended to assess any changes in visual function. The awareness of this serious potential side effect is critical, as it impacts the risk-benefit analysis when prescribing vigabatrin for conditions such as epilepsy or infantile spasms.

While other side effects like acute liver failure, kidney damage, and severe rash are associated with various medications, they are not specifically linked to Sabril in the same concerning manner as vision loss. Therefore, permanent blindness stands out as a particularly severe and unique risk related to Sabril.