Lacosamide
Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy, Partial Epilepsies ... show more
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DRUG STATUS
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Lacosamide
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Lacosamide is a medication primarily used to treat a type of seizure known as partial-onset seizures. However, it's important to know that it does not treat nerve pain caused by diabetes.
Lacosamide works by stabilizing the neuronal membranes in the brain. It enhances the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels, which reduces repetitive neuronal firing. This helps to control seizures.
For adults, the typical daily dose is between 300 and 400 milligrams, taken in two doses. It can be taken with or without food. Always swallow the pills whole, don't break them.
Common side effects include blurry vision, nausea, headaches, sleepiness, and dizziness. In rare cases, it can cause serious problems like allergic reactions, skin rash, liver or blood problems, and heart problems.
Do not stop taking Lacosamide suddenly, especially if you have seizures. This can be dangerous and can cause suicidal thoughts, serious skin or organ problems, and heart problems. Always consult your doctor before combining it with other medications.
Indications and Purpose
What is Lacosamide used for?
Lacosamide is a medicine used to treat a certain type of seizure called a partial-onset seizure. It's important to know that this medicine does *not* treat nerve pain caused by diabetes.
How does Lacosamide work?
Lacosamide stabilizes neuronal membranes by enhancing the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels, reducing repetitive neuronal firing.
Is Lacosamide effective?
A study tested a drug called lacosamide to see if it could help people with a type of seizure. They compared it to a very low dose of a different seizure medicine. More people taking lacosamide saw their seizures improve enough to meet the study's goals. This suggests lacosamide is better at controlling this type of seizure than a weak dose of another drug.
How does one know if Lacosamide is working?
Effectiveness is evaluated by a reduction in seizure frequency, intensity, or duration.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Lacosamide?
For grown-ups, the typical daily dose is between 300 and 400 milligrams (mg), taken in two doses. Another way to take it is with a larger first dose (200mg), then two smaller doses (100mg each) twice a day. The doctor might increase the smaller doses by 100mg each week if needed. There's no information given for children.
How do I take Lacosamide?
You can take Lacosamide pills with or without food. Drink some liquid and swallow the pills whole—don't break them. If you take too many, call your doctor or a poison control center right away.
For how long do I take Lacosamide?
Lacosamide is generally taken long-term as prescribed for seizure control. Do not discontinue abruptly; taper gradually over at least one week to avoid increased seizure frequency.
How long does it take for Lacosamide to start working?
Steady-state plasma concentrations are reached after 3 days of twice-daily administration.
How should I store Lacosamide?
Keep this product cool, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). It's okay if the temperature goes a little higher or lower, between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C), but don't let it freeze. Use it up within 6 months; throw away anything left after that.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Lacosamide?
Don't stop taking lacosamide suddenly. Stopping it abruptly can be very dangerous, especially if you have seizures. It can also cause suicidal thoughts, serious skin or organ problems, and heart problems, especially if you already have heart issues or take other heart medicines. Tell your doctor right away if you have any heart problems (like feeling faint or having an irregular heartbeat), or signs of liver trouble (like feeling tired, yellowing skin or eyes, or dark urine).
Can I take Lacosamide with other prescription drugs?
Lacosamide interacts with drugs that affect cardiac conduction or prolong PR intervals. Caution is advised with such combinations.
Can I take Lacosamide with vitamins or supplements?
No specific interactions with vitamins or supplements were noted. Always consult your doctor before combining medications.
Can Lacosamide be taken safely while pregnant?
Animal studies indicate potential risks; human data are insufficient. Pregnant women should only use lacosamide if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Can Lacosamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
If you're breastfeeding and taking lacosamide, your baby might get sleepy. This is because some of the medicine can pass into your breast milk. If this happens, talk to your baby's doctor. They can help you figure out the best way to feed your baby.
Is Lacosamide safe for the elderly?
Start older adults on the lowest possible dose of lacosamide. This is because older people often have liver or kidney problems, heart rhythm issues, and take many other medicines, which can make the medication less safe at higher doses. You don't need to change the dose based solely on their age, but start low and go slow.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Lacosamide?
Exercise is generally safe but monitor for dizziness or fatigue.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Lacosamide?
Mixing Lacosamide and alcohol is risky. The alcohol can make the medicine's sleepy and dizzying effects much stronger and more dangerous. It's best to avoid alcohol completely while you're taking this medication.
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