Ampyra (dalfampridine) is a potassium channel blocker indicated as a symptomatic treatment to improve walking in adult patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Difficulty with walking is one of the most reported challenges of having MS.1
Improvement through the use of Ampyra is measured by an increased rate of walking speed. No differences in effectiveness were noted based on degree of impairment, age, gender, or body mass index.1
What are the ingredients in Ampyra?
The active ingredient in Ampyra is dalfampridine.1
How does Ampyra work?
Ampyra works by blocking tiny pores (called potassium channels) on the surface of nerve fibers. Blocking potassium channels may improve the ability of nerve fibers that are damaged by demyelination due to MS, to conduct electrical impulses or nerve signals.1
What are the possible side effects of Ampyra?
Many clinical trials evaluated the safety and efficacy of Amyra. The most common side effects experienced by those taking Amyra include:1
- Urinary tract infection
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Asthenia (weakness or lack of energy)
- Back pain
- Balance disorder
- Multiple sclerosis relapse
- Paresthesia (numbness or tingling)
- Cold or cold-like symptoms (Nasopharyngitis)
- Constipation
- Indigestion (Dyspepsia)
- Throat pain
These are not all the possible side effects of Ampyra. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Ampyra. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Ampyra.
Other things to know about Ampyra
The kidneys substantially excrete Ampyra and decreased kidney function can lead to increased exposure to Ampyra and the risk of adverse reactions, including seizures, is greater with increasing exposure of dalfampridine. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, it is particularly important to monitor the creatinine clearance (CrCl) level in patients.1
Before starting Ampyra, talk with your doctor if you have:1
- A history of seizures
- Certain kidney conditions
- A history of hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to Ampyra or 4-aminopyridine
Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, as there is limited information on the use of Ampyra in pregnancy. Based on data from animal studies, Ampyra can harm an unborn baby.1
Before beginning treatment for MS, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.
For more information, read the full prescribing information of Ampyra.