lacosam (LACOSAMIDE)
Introduction to lacosam
Lacosam is a medication primarily used to treat a specific type of seizure known as partial-onset seizures. It is important to note that lacosam is not used to treat nerve pain... See More
What is Lacosam?
Lacosam is a medicine for seizures that works by calming overactive brain cells. It's fully absorbed when taken by mouth, and its effects become consistent after taking it twice a day for three days.
What is the usual dose of Lacosam?
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 Lacosam?
You can take Lacosam 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 Lacosam?
Lacosam 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.
What is Lacosam used for?
Lacosam 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 long does it take for Lacosam to start working?
Steady-state plasma concentrations are reached after 3 days of twice-daily administration.
Is Lacosam effective?
A study tested a drug called Lacosam 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 Lacosam saw their seizures improve enough to meet the study's goals. This suggests Lacosam is better at controlling this type of seizure than a weak dose of another drug.
How does one know if Lacosam is working?
Effectiveness is evaluated by a reduction in seizure frequency, intensity, or duration.
How does Lacosam work?
Lacosam stabilizes neuronal membranes by enhancing the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels, reducing repetitive neuronal firing.
Who should avoid taking Lacosam?
Don't stop taking Lacosam 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 Lacosam with vitamins or supplements?
No specific interactions with vitamins or supplements were noted. Always consult your doctor before combining medications.
Can I take Lacosam with other prescription drugs?
Lacosam interacts with drugs that affect cardiac conduction or prolong PR intervals. Caution is advised with such combinations.
Can Lacosam be taken safely while pregnant?
Animal studies indicate potential risks; human data are insufficient. Pregnant women should only use Lacosam if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Can Lacosam be taken safely while breastfeeding?
If you're breastfeeding and taking Lacosam, 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 Lacosam safe for the elderly?
Start older adults on the lowest possible dose of Lacosam. 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.
How should I store Lacosam?
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.
Does Lacosam make people tired or drowsy?
Yes, somnolence is a common side effect. Avoid operating machinery or driving if affected.
Does Lacosam cause stomach upset?
Yes, nausea occurs in about 11% of cases. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
Does Lacosam affect sleep?
Lacosam can make you sleepy. If this happens, tell your doctor. If you're breastfeeding while taking it, your baby might also get sleepy. If your baby seems unusually sleepy, tell your baby's doctor.
Does Lacosam make it hard to think or concentrate?
Yes, dizziness and cognitive difficulties are possible side effects. Avoid activities requiring alertness if affected.
Does Lacosam affect mood?
Yes, mood changes, including depression and suicidal thoughts, have been reported. Inform a doctor immediately if such symptoms occur.
Does Lacosam interfere with sexual function?
Sexual side effects are not explicitly listed for Lacosam.
Does Lacosam affect appetite?
No significant effects on appetite are reported.
Does Lacosam cause weight gain?
Weight changes are not noted as common side effects.
Does Lacosam cause headaches?
Lacosam can sometimes cause headaches. If you get a headache while taking these medicines, tell your doctor or nurse.
Does Lacosam limit driving?
Lacosam can make you feel dizzy, sleepy, see double, and have trouble with balance. These side effects can make it unsafe to drive. If you have trouble driving while taking these medicines, stop driving right away and call your doctor.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Lacosam?
Mixing Lacosam 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.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Lacosam?
Coffee or tea does not interact significantly with Lacosam.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Lacosam?
Exercise is generally safe but monitor for dizziness or fatigue.
What are Lacosam possible harms and risks?
Lacosam can cause common side effects like blurry vision, feeling sick, headache, sleepiness, and dizziness. Rarely, it can cause serious problems like allergic reactions (skin rash, hives, swelling, fever), liver or blood problems (yellow skin/eyes, shortness of breath, dark urine). The extended-release version has similar side effects.
Available in 9 variations
Lacosam 50mg Tablet
Lacosamide (50mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Lacosam 150mg Tablet
Lacosamide (150mg)
strip of 15 tablets
Lacosam 150 Tablet
Lacosam 150 Tablet
Lacosamide (150mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Lacosam 15mg Syrup
Lacosam 15mg Syrup
Lacosamide (15mg/ml)
bottle of 200 ml Syrup
Lacosam 200mg Tablet
Lacosamide (200mg)
strip of 15 tablets
Lacosam 100mg Tablet
Lacosamide (100mg)
strip of 15 tablets
Lacosam 10mg Injection
Lacosamide (10mg)
vial of 20 ml injection
Lacosam 200 Tablet
Lacosamide (200mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Lacosam 100mg Tablet
Lacosam 100mg Tablet
Lacosamide (100mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Similar Medicines
Lacosamide (100mg)
Lacosamide (100mg)
Lacosamide (100mg)
Lacosamide (100mg)
Lacosamide (100mg)
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