Follow your doctor's directions. Call if you have any questions. Usually, your doctor will tell you to start by taking one tablet – either 2 or 4 milligrams – two times each day. After a while, the doctor may gradually increase the dosage to get better control of your seizures. Because Gabitril (tiagabine) is generally taken up to four times a day, many people help themselves to remember by taking it with meals and at bedtime. It should be taken with food. Ask the doctor what to do if you forget to take a dose.
Be careful if the doctor writes a new prescription using a different kind of pill. For example, if you've been using 4-mg tablets and the new prescription is for 12-mg tablets, be careful to use the correct number. Don't automatically continue to use the same number of pills as before. Make sure you know what size tablet has been prescribed.
All forms of Gabitril should be stored at room temperature, away from light and humidity. (Don't keep the pills in the bathroom if it's damp there.) Of course, keep all Gabitril out of the reach of children.
Don't take more than the doctor prescribes. Be sure to use only the amount of Gabitril that your doctor prescribes. If you think you've taken one or two extra tablets, call your doctor for advice. For a larger overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency room right away, unless you have special directions from the doctor.
Don't stop taking Gabitril or change the amount you take without talking to your doctor first. Stopping any seizure medicine all at once can cause serious problems.