Ampyra

Generic name: dalfampridine

Drug class: Miscellaneous central nervous system agents

Dosage form: Extended-release tablet

Root of administration: Oral

Dose: 10 mg orally every 12 hours; do not exceed 2 tablets in a 24-hour period

Mechanism of action: Dalfampridine is a potassium channel blocker that enhances nerve signal conduction in demyelinated nerve fibers, improving walking speed in individuals with multiple sclerosis.

Drug usage cases:

• Improvement of walking in adults with multiple sclerosis (MS)

Drug contraindications:

• History of seizures
• Moderate to severe kidney disease (creatinine clearance ≤50 mL/min)
• Allergy to dalfampridine or 4-aminopyridine

Side effects:

• Seizures
• Urinary tract infections
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Back pain
• Balance problems
• Multiple sclerosis relapse
• Burning, tingling, or itching of the skin
• Irritation of the nose and throat
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Sore throat

Warnings:

• Seizure risk: Dalfampridine can cause seizures, even in individuals without a prior history. The risk increases with higher blood levels of the drug, which may occur in patients with kidney impairment. Renal function should be assessed before starting treatment and monitored periodically during therapy. If a seizure occurs, discontinue the medication and seek immediate medical attention.
• Kidney function: Contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≤50 mL/min). In patients with mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance 51-80 mL/min), the use of dalfampridine requires careful consideration of potential benefits and risks.
• Drug interactions: Do not use dalfampridine in combination with other forms of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP, fampridine), as the active ingredient is the same, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
• Missed doses: If a dose is missed, do not take an extra dose. Take the next dose at the regular scheduled time. Do not take more than two tablets in a 24-hour period.
• Administration: Tablets should be swallowed whole and not divided, crushed, chewed, or dissolved, as breaking the tablet may release too much of the drug at once, increasing the risk of seizures.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: The safety of dalfampridine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. It is not known if dalfampridine will harm an unborn baby or pass into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before starting treatment with dalfampridine.