UCB have announced that they will begin recalling Vimpat 15mg/15ml syrup from pharmacies on 15 September 2011. This recall is because of a quality issue (see drug watch from 27 July below). Vimpat tablets have not been affected, and will continue to be available.
If you are currently taking Vimpat 15 mg/15ml syrup you should speak to your doctor as soon as possible, to discuss your future treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns about your Vimpat 15mg/ml syrup, please speak to your doctor or pharmacist. You should not stop taking your current epilepsy medication, or change the dose you take, except under the guidance of your doctor.
27 July 2011
Drug manufacturers UCB are going to recall Vimpat 15mg/ml syrup. This is because there is a quality issue wiith some batches of the syrup. The problem is with the ingredient lacosamide. The lacosamide is not evenly mixed in the syrup. This can mean people may not get the right amount of lacosamide in each spoonful of Vimpat 15mg/ml syrup. People may get more or less than they should.
There is no evidence at the moment that people have had problems with Vimpat 15mg/15ml syrup. UCB are withdrawing it as a precaution. They are contacting healthcare professionals, such as GPs, with information about how to manage their patients who are currently taking this syrup.
Do not stop taking your Vimpat as you could have more or severe seizures if you do. Speak with your GP or epilepsy specialist for advice.