NZ Formulary

Lacosamide

la-koe-sar-mide

What does it do?

Lacosamide is used to treat and prevent seizures.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have heart problems.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take lacosamide regularly as directed. You can take it with or without food.
Tablet: Take with a glass of water.
Liquid: Measure carefully with the syringe provided.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible and continue as directed.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort, ginkgo) or recreational drugs (e.g. ecstasy).

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Suicidal thoughts

Symptoms of heart problems including: fluttering, pounding or pain in your chest, feeling your heart skips a beat, dizziness or fainting

Tell your doctor immediately

Loss of co-ordination/walking or handwriting problems, tremor

Changes in vision

Tell your doctor

Dizziness, tiredness or weakness, headache

Nausea

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Lacosamide can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
  • Do not stop taking lacosamide without talking to your doctor first.