Lacosamide

Lacosamide is used for:

Treating partial-onset seizures in certain patients with epilepsy. It is used in combination with other medicines.

Lacosamide is an anticonvulsant. Exactly how it works is not known, but it may work by slowing abnormal nerve impulses in the brain.

Use Lacosamide as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

* Lacosamide comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Lacosamide refilled.

* Take Lacosamide by mouth with or without food.

* Taking Lacosamide at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.

* Continue to take Lacosamide even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

* Do not suddenly stop taking Lacosamide. You may have an increased risk of side effects (eg, seizures). If you need to stop Lacosamide or add a new medicine, your doctor will gradually lower your dose.

* If you miss a dose of Lacosamide, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Lacosamide.

* Lacosamide may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Lacosamide with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

* Lab tests, including electrocardiogram (ECG) or liver or kidney function, may be performed while you use Lacosamide. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

* Use Lacosamide with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

* Lacosamide should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 17 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Lacosamide while you are pregnant. It is not known if Lacosamide is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Lacosamide.

Store Lacosamide at 68 to 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Lacosamide out of the reach of children and away from pets.