Lacosamide
Information about Lacosamide
Lacosamide uses
Lacosamide is used in the treatment of epilepsy/seizures.
How lacosamide works
Lacosamide is an antiepileptic medication. It slowly inactivates the sodium gated channels, which decreases the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain. Thereby, it controls seizures or fits.
Common side effects of lacosamide
Dizziness, Double vision, Headache, Nausea, Diarrhea, Itching, Sleepiness, Vomiting, Weakness, Visual disturbance, Bruise, Abnormality of voluntary movements, Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome, Slow heart rate, Atrioventricular block, Liver dysfunction
Available Medicine for Lacosamide
Expert advice for Lacosamide
- Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures.
- Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you.
- Some healthy tips to prevent seizures:
- Practice yoga every day.
- Get enough sleep at nighttime.
- Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/laptop.
- Take your medication on time.
- It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
- Talk to your doctor if you notice sudden mood changes or develop suicidal thoughts.
- Talk to your doctor if you have a heart problem that affects your heartbeat.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as it may increase the seizure frequency.
Frequently asked questions for Lacosamide
Lacosamide
Q. I have been taking Lacosamide since nine months and haven’t had any seizures till now. Can I stop taking it now?
No, you should not stop taking Lacosamide even if you start feeling better. Stopping this medicine suddenly may lead to seizures which can be difficult to control. Consult your doctor if you experience any problems while being on treatment with Lacosamide. The doctor may adjust the dose or gradually reduce the dose.
Q. Is it safe to drive if I am taking Lacosamide?
No, you need to be careful while driving or operating heavy machinery until and unless you know how Lacosamide affects you. You may experience dizziness or drowsiness and blurred vision, especially during the initial days of treatment. These side effects can also be observed if the dose is increased.
Q. What should I do if I forget a dose of Lacosamide?
If you miss a dose of Lacosamide within 6 hours of the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if you have forgotten to take the dose for more than 6 hours of the scheduled time then skip the dose and take the next one as scheduled. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose.