Wakix
Generic name:pitolisant [ pi-TOL-i-sant ]
Drug class:CNS stimulants
What is Wakix?
Wakix is an antagonist/inverse agonist of the histamine-3 receptor.
Wakix is used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness or cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle strength) in adults with narcolepsy.
Wakix is supplied as an oral tablet containing 4.45 mg or 17.8 mg or pitolisant.
Warnings
You should not use Wakix if you have severe liver disease.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Wakix if you are allergic to pitolisant, or if you have:
severe liver disease.
To make sure Wakix is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
liver disease;
kidney disease;
a heart rhythm disorder; or
long QT syndrome (in you or a family member).
Ask a doctor before using Wakix if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of pitolisant on the baby.
Pitolisant can make hormonal birth control less effective, including birth control pills, injections, implants, skin patches, and vaginal rings. To prevent pregnancy while using this medicine, use a barrier form of birth control: condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge. Keep using birth control for at least 21 days after your last dose of pitolisant.
Wakix is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take Wakix?
Take Wakix exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Wakix is usually taken once daily when you wake up.
It may take up to 8 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Narcolepsy:
Initial Up Titration: 8.9 mg orally once a day for 1 week, then 17.8 mg orally once a day for 1 week, then may increase to 36 mg orally once a day
-Adjust dose based on patient response and tolerability
Maintenance dose: 17.8 to 35.6 mg/day
Maximum dose: 35.6 mg/day
Comments:
-Total dose should be administered as a single dose in the morning during breakfast.
-It may take up to 8 weeks for some patients to achieve a clinical response.
Use: For the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness in patien
