amifampridine phosphate at a glance
Medicine class
Potassium-channel blocker and acetylcholine-release enhancer
Licensed use
Symptomatic treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in adults
Administration
Oral tablet taken with food; the scored tablet can be divided into equal halves
Important monitoring
Clinical and ECG monitoring is required because of seizure and cardiac-rhythm risks
What is amifampridine phosphate used for?
The selected product has one licensed indication.
Symptomatic treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in adults.
How does amifampridine phosphate work?
Amifampridine blocks voltage-dependent potassium channels at nerve endings. This prolongs the electrical signal, increases calcium entry and releases more acetylcholine, strengthening transmission from nerves to muscles.
amifampridine phosphate preparations and strengths
Tablet
Route: Oral
Strengths: 10 mg
How to take amifampridine phosphate
Swallow the tablet with water and take it with food. It may be divided into equal halves along the score line. Follow the specialist's instructions and do not stop treatment without discussion, because LEMS symptoms may return.
amifampridine phosphate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Tingling or numbness, particularly around the mouth, hands or feet
- Reduced sensation
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Increased sweating or cold sweats
- Abdominal pain
- Cold hands or feet
Get urgent medical advice
- Seizure
- Asthma attack or significant breathing difficulty
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Severe or persistent neurological symptoms, including abnormal movements
amifampridine phosphate in pregnancy
Amifampridine phosphate should not be used during pregnancy, and effective contraception is required during treatment. Anyone who becomes pregnant should contact the prescribing specialist promptly rather than stopping treatment without advice.
amifampridine phosphate while breastfeeding
It is unknown whether amifampridine passes into human milk. A specialist should assess whether breastfeeding or treatment should be discontinued, considering the benefits to both parent and child.
amifampridine phosphate interactions
A complete medicines review is required before treatment and whenever another medicine is started or stopped.
Sultopride and medicines that prolong the QT interval
Concomitant use is contraindicated because it may increase the risk of dangerous ventricular arrhythmias.
Medicines with a narrow therapeutic window
Concomitant use is contraindicated because amifampridine's effect on their metabolism or secretion is uncertain.
Tramadol, bupropion, mefloquine, antidepressants and antipsychotics that lower the seizure threshold
The combination may increase seizure risk and requires careful specialist consideration.
Common questions about amifampridine phosphate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is amifampridine phosphate used for?
The selected product is licensed to treat symptoms of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in adults.
Does amifampridine phosphate cure Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome?
No. It improves nerve-to-muscle signalling and symptoms but does not remove the underlying cause.
Can the tablets be split?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.