Mechanism of action: Stiripentol balliculeVisual mnemonic: Stiripentol mascot “Die or commit, Stirrup pen doll” Approved as an add-on to clobazam (ONFI, the mascot on the left) for seizures in Dravet syndrome
What it isGABA-A positive allosteric modulator used with clobazam for Dravet syndrome.
Why this oneIts Dravet-specific role includes deliberately increasing clobazam’s active metabolite through CYP inhibition.
What limits itSomnolence, appetite and weight loss, neutropenia, and interactions are common; clobazam often needs reduction.
Seizures with Dravet syndrome (adjunct with clobazam)
≥6 months, ≥7 kg
50 mg/kg/day divided BID or TID
50 mg/kg/day
3000 mg/day
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Max 3000 mg/day; do not exceed BID frequency in patients <10 kg (limit free water/overexposure).
Instructions
Capsules: swallow whole with water during a meal; do not break or open.
Oral suspension: mix in water (100 mL) and take immediately during a meal.
Withdraw gradually to minimize risk of increased seizures/status epilepticus.
If somnolence with concomitant clobazam, reduce clobazam by 25%.
Available strengths
cap 250, 500 mg
susp 250, 500 mg/packet
Cautions
Somnolence, esp. with clobazam/other CNS depressants
Decreased appetite and weight — monitor growth in pediatrics
Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia — CBC before treatment and every 6 months
Withdrawal seizures/status epilepticus on abrupt discontinuation
PKU: oral suspension contains phenylalanine
Suicidal behavior and ideation
Adverse reactions
Somnolence
Decreased appetite
Agitation
Ataxia
Weight decreased
Hypotonia
Nausea
Tremor
Dysarthria
Insomnia
Pregnancy No adequate human data; animal developmental toxicity (malformations, mortality) below clinical dose. Enroll in NAAED registry.
Lactation No data on presence in milk or infant effects; weigh benefits/risks.
Cost
Stiripentol (DIACOMIT)
Strength
#/mo
generic $
CostPlus
250 mg
cap
60 BID
not offered
500 mg
cap
60 BID
not offered
250 mg/packet
susp
per unit
not offered
500 mg/packet
susp
per unit
not offered
NADAC is a voluntary CMS survey of what retail community pharmacies pay for the drugs they stock. Stiripentol is dispensed outside retail pharmacies, so it rarely appears on surveyed invoices.
Generic entry2029 est.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskmarked sedation from increased clobazam and norclobazam exposure