Lacosamide — Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient

Lacosamide is an active pharmaceutical ingredient found in 3 FDA-approved drug products. Forms: SOLUTION, TABLET, CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE. Routes: ORAL, INTRAVENOUS.

This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Lacosamide (3 brand names, 3 dosage forms, 2 routes)

Available dosage forms: SOLUTION, TABLET, CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE.

Routes of administration: ORAL, INTRAVENOUS.

Brand Names

  • LACOSAMIDE
  • MOTPOLY XR
  • VIMPAT

Contraindications

None.

Adverse Reactions

The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Dizziness and Ataxia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Cardiac Rhythm and Conduction Abnormalities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multiorgan Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]

Mechanism of Action

The precise mechanism by which lacosamide exerts its antiepileptic effects in humans remains to be fully elucidated. In vitro electrophysiological studies have shown that lacosamide selectively enhances slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels, resulting in stabilization of hyperexcitable neuronal membranes and inhibition of repetitive neuronal firing.

Overdosage

Events reported after an intake of more than 800 mg (twice the maximum recommended daily dosage) of lacosamide include dizziness, nausea, and seizures (generalized tonic-clonic seizures, status epilepticus). Cardiac conduction disorders, confusion, decreased level of consciousness, cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, and coma have also been observed. Fatalities have occurred following lacosamide overdoses of several grams. There is no specific antidote for overdose with lacosamide. Standard decontamination procedures should be followed. General supportive care of the patient is indicated including monitoring of vital signs and observation of the clinical status of patient. A Certified Poison Control Center should be contacted for up to date information on the management of overdose with lacosamide. Standard hemodialysis procedures result in significant clearance of lacosamide (reduction of systemic exposure by 50% in 4 hours). Hemodialysis may be indicated based on the patient’s clinical state or in patients with significant renal impairment.

⚠ Caution
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication.