Lasmiditan
Migraine with Aura, Migraine without Aura
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No

Lasmiditan
Summary
Lasmiditan is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks in adults, with or without aura. It is not used for preventing migraines.
Lasmiditan works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain. This action helps to stop pain signals and reduce inflammation associated with migraines.
The usual dose for adults is 50 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg taken orally, as needed for migraine attacks. It should be swallowed whole without splitting, crushing, or chewing.
Common side effects of Lasmiditan include dizziness, sleepiness, and fatigue. Other side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and mental health side effects such as agitation and hallucinations.
Lasmiditan can cause significant drowsiness and dizziness, impairing the ability to drive. It should not be used with alcohol or other CNS depressants. It may also interact with other medications and supplements, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking.
Indications and Purpose
How does Lasmiditan work?
Lasmiditan works by binding to the 5-HT1F serotonin receptor in the brain. This action helps stop pain signals from being sent to the brain and reduces inflammation of the nerves that cause migraine symptoms. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.
Is Lasmiditan effective?
The efficacy of Lasmiditan in treating migraines was demonstrated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. These studies showed that a higher percentage of patients achieved pain freedom and relief from their most bothersome symptoms within 2 hours of taking Lasmiditan compared to those taking a placebo.
What is Lasmiditan?
Lasmiditan is used to treat acute migraine attacks with or without aura in adults. It works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, which helps stop pain signals and reduce inflammation associated with migraines. Lasmiditan is not used for the prevention of migraines.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Lasmiditan?
Lasmiditan is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks and is not intended for long-term or preventive use. It should be taken only when a migraine occurs, and not more than once in a 24-hour period. The safety of treating more than four migraine attacks in a 30-day period has not been established.
How do I take Lasmiditan?
Lasmiditan can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole without splitting, crushing, or chewing. There are no specific food restrictions while taking Lasmiditan, but it is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and frequency.
How long does it take for Lasmiditan to start working?
Lasmiditan typically starts working within 2 hours of administration, providing relief from migraine pain and associated symptoms. Patients should take the medication at the first sign of a migraine for optimal effectiveness.
How should I store Lasmiditan?
Store Lasmiditan at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom.
What is the usual dose of Lasmiditan?
The recommended dose of Lasmiditan for adults is 50 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg taken orally as needed. No more than one dose should be taken in a 24-hour period. Lasmiditan is not indicated for use in children, and its safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Lasmiditan with other prescription drugs?
Lasmiditan may interact with CNS depressants, increasing the risk of sedation. It can also interact with serotonergic drugs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Additionally, Lasmiditan may lower heart rate, so caution is advised when used with heart rate-lowering drugs.
Can Lasmiditan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Lasmiditan in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for Lasmiditan and any potential adverse effects on the infant.
Can Lasmiditan be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with the use of Lasmiditan in pregnant women. A pregnancy exposure registry monitors outcomes in women exposed to Lasmiditan during pregnancy. Women should consult their healthcare provider if they become pregnant while taking Lasmiditan.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Lasmiditan?
Drinking alcohol while taking Lasmiditan can worsen its side effects, such as dizziness and sedation. It is advised to use caution if consuming alcohol while on this medication, as it may impair your ability to perform tasks that require full mental alertness, like driving.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Lasmiditan?
Lasmiditan may cause dizziness and sedation, which could limit your ability to exercise safely. It is advised to avoid activities that require full mental alertness, such as exercise, for at least 8 hours after taking Lasmiditan. Consult your doctor for personalized advice if you have concerns about exercising while on this medication.
Is Lasmiditan safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may experience dizziness more frequently when taking Lasmiditan. A larger increase in systolic blood pressure has also been observed in patients aged 65 and older. Dose selection should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Who should avoid taking Lasmiditan?
Important warnings for Lasmiditan include the risk of driving impairment, central nervous system depression, and serotonin syndrome. Patients should avoid driving for at least 8 hours after taking the medication. Lasmiditan should be used with caution in combination with alcohol or other CNS depressants. It may also interact with serotonergic drugs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome.