About lacosamide
Antiseizure medicine; sodium-channel modulator
Used for
- Treatment of partial-onset seizures, alone or with other medicines.
- Treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures with other medicines.
Usual adult dose
Usually 50 mg twice daily initially; increased weekly to 100–200 mg twice daily. Intravenous dosing may replace oral dosing temporarily.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 4 years and older, dosing is weight-based, usually starting at 1 mg/kg twice daily; maximum depends on weight and use.
Common side effects
- Dizziness, headache, double vision, or nausea
- Sleepiness, tiredness, or problems with balance
- Vomiting
- Irregular heartbeat or fainting
Important warnings
- May cause dizziness, impaired coordination, or suicidal thoughts.
- Can prolong the heart’s electrical interval; caution with heart disease or rhythm problems.
- Stopping suddenly may increase seizures; withdrawal is generally gradual.
- Infusion is given by healthcare professionals; follow prescribed infusion duration.
Pregnancy
May pose risks to an unborn baby; pregnancy registry data are available. Seizures and treatment risks require clinical review.
Breastfeeding
Lacosamide passes into breast milk; effects on nursing infants are uncertain.
Interactions
- Medicines affecting heart rhythm or electrical conduction may increase cardiac risks.
- Other medicines causing dizziness or sleepiness may worsen these effects.
- Carbamazepine or phenytoin can lower lacosamide levels; lacosamide may alter their levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.