See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Lacosamide
What is lacosamide used for?
Lacosamide (often sold under brand names such as Vimpat) is an anti-seizure medicine used to treat epilepsy. It is prescribed for partial-onset (focal) seizures, including in people with drug-resistant epilepsy. It may be used as an adjunctive therapy (with other anti-seizure medicines) and, depending on the patient and regimen, can also be used in monotherapy.
How is lacosamide taken, and what formulations exist?
Lacosamide is available in oral forms (commonly tablets and oral solution). Dosing is adjusted based on the patient’s response and tolerability, and clinicians also account for factors like kidney function and other medications.
What are common side effects patients ask about?
Common side effects associated with lacosamide include dizziness, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Some patients also experience problems with coordination or balance. Because lacosamide affects electrical signaling in the nervous system, clinicians also watch for effects that can relate to heart rhythm in susceptible patients.
Does lacosamide affect the heart rhythm?
Yes. Lacosamide can slow cardiac conduction in some people, which can show up as PR interval prolongation on an electrocardiogram. Clinicians are more cautious when a patient has known conduction problems or is taking other medicines that can affect heart rhythm.
Who should be extra cautious when taking lacosamide?
Clinicians typically exercise extra care in patients with:
- Known heart rhythm or conduction disorders
- Significant renal impairment (dose adjustments may be needed)
- Concomitant use of other drugs that prolong the PR interval or affect cardiac conduction
What happens if someone misses a dose?
If a dose is missed, patients usually should take it when they remember unless it is close to the time of the next dose. They should not take a double dose. The exact instructions can vary by prescribing information and local guidance.
Is lacosamide available as a generic, and how do patents factor in?
Whether lacosamide is available as a generic and when specific exclusivities/patents expire depends on the formulation, market, and patent status in each jurisdiction. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent and exclusivity information for specific medicines and can be a starting point for checking the current landscape for lacosamide. [1]
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/