What is Wakix?
Wakix tablets can be used to treat adults who have excessive sleepiness during the day or cataplexy. Both are symptoms of narcolepsy.Wakix works by reducing the amount of histamine that is released in the area of the brain that controls sleepiness and wakefulness. It does this by acting on the histamine-3 receptor (H3).
Narcolepsy affects the ability of the brain to control the sleep-wake cycle. Narcoleptics often have disturbed sleep patterns and feel sleepy throughout the day. This can interfere with their lives. All people with narcolepsy have excessive daytime sleepiness. This is an overwhelming feeling of sleepiness that comes on very quickly.
Cataplexy occurs when there is a sudden drop in muscle tone while you are still awake. This can lead to weakness and a loss of control. Cataplexy may be mild, lasting only a few minutes, or severe, resulting in the collapse of the entire body.Wakix, the FDA-approved narcolepsy medication, is not a controlled drug treatment.Wakix is not a stimulant medicine.
Warnings
If you have severe liver problems, Wakix is not recommended.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if you have an allergy to pitolisant or any other inactive ingredient. You can view the complete list of components by clicking here.
Wakix should not be used if:
- Severe liver disease
Inform your doctor of any of the following issues:
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- A heart rhythm disorder,
- Long-QT syndrome
Pregnancy
Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant.You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to track the effects this medicine has on the child.
Wakix may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraception, including contraception pills and skin patches. Use a barrier birth control method to prevent pregnancy when using this medication. These include a condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap. Continue to use birth control at least 21 days after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
If you are currently breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, consult your doctor before taking this medication.Anyone younger than 18 is not allowed to use Pitolisant.
How to take Wakix?
Follow all instructions listed on your prescription label and read any medication guides or instruction sheets that come with it. Read all the instructions and directions that come with your medication. Sometimes your doctor will change the dose.Wakix tablets are usually taken daily at the time of waking up. These supplements may be taken with or without food.You will likely be prescribed a low dosage and then gradually increase your dose no more than once every seven days.
Your symptoms may not improve for up to eight weeks. Continue to take the medication according to instructions, and inform your doctor if you do not see improvement in your symptoms.
Details on dosage
Wakix can be taken in a range of 17.8mg to 35.6mg once daily, upon waking up.
Increase the dosage gradually by following these steps:
Week 1: Begin with 8.9 mg (2 tablets of 4.45 mg) taken once daily.
Week 2: Increase the dosage to 17.8mg (one 17.8mg tablet) daily.
In week 3, you may increase your dose to 35.6 mg (2 tablets of 17.8 mg) twice daily.
Note: The dose may be adjusted according to tolerance.
Some patients may need up to eight weeks to see a positive clinical response.
Wakix comes as an oral tablet that contains either 4.45 mg or 17.8 mg of pitolisant.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not take the missed dose. Use your next dose at regular time the next morning. Do not take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Wakix
If you experience any of the following: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat, please seek emergency medical attention.
Contact your doctor immediately if you suffer from:
- Fluttering or fast heartbeats
- Shortness of breath
- You may feel dizzy or faint.
Wakix side effects may include
- Nausea;
- Sleep problems (insomnia).
There may be other side effects.If you experience side effects, seek medical advice immediately by consulting with your physician or reporting them through 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drug
Your doctor may adjust your doses for any other medications you regularly take when you begin or stop taking the medicine.
Wakix may cause serious heart problems. This risk is higher if you are also taking other medications for asthma, depression, mental illness, or cancer.Pitolisant can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
