See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lacosamide
Food and Beverage Restrictions with Lacosamide: What You Need to Know
Lacosamide is a medication used to treat epilepsy and diabetic nerve pain. While it is generally well-tolerated, there are some food and beverage restrictions that patients should be aware of to ensure the medication is effective and safe.
What is Lacosamide?
Lacosamide is a prescription medication that works by stabilizing abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is available in oral tablet and oral solution forms and is typically taken once or twice daily.
Food and Beverage Restrictions
While lacosamide can be taken with or without food, there are some specific food and beverage restrictions that patients should be aware of.
Avoid Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with lacosamide, increasing its levels in the blood and potentially causing side effects. Patients should avoid consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking lacosamide.
Avoid Other Medications
Lacosamide can interact with other medications, including:
* Antacids: Taking antacids with lacosamide can reduce its absorption and effectiveness.
* Oral contraceptives: Lacosamide can increase the levels of oral contraceptives in the blood, potentially causing side effects.
* Other medications: Lacosamide can interact with other medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and sedatives.
Avoid Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages, such as soda and sparkling water, can cause lacosamide to foam and become less effective.
Avoid High-Fat Foods
High-fat foods, such as fried foods and fatty meats, can slow down the absorption of lacosamide and reduce its effectiveness.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose of lacosamide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What to Do If You Take Too Much
If you take too much lacosamide, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose can include dizziness, confusion, and difficulty speaking.
Conclusion
Lacosamide is a medication that can be effective in treating epilepsy and diabetic nerve pain. However, there are some food and beverage restrictions that patients should be aware of to ensure the medication is effective and safe. By avoiding grapefruit and grapefruit juice, other medications, carbonated beverages, high-fat foods, and taking the medication as directed, patients can minimize the risk of side effects and maximize the benefits of lacosamide.
Key Takeaways
* Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking lacosamide
* Avoid other medications that can interact with lacosamide
* Avoid carbonated beverages and high-fat foods
* Take lacosamide as directed and do not miss doses
* Seek medical attention if you take too much lacosamide
FAQs
1. Can I take lacosamide with food?
Lacosamide can be taken with or without food. However, it is recommended to take it with a meal to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
2. What should I do if I miss a dose of lacosamide?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
3. What should I do if I take too much lacosamide?
Seek medical attention immediately if you take too much lacosamide. Symptoms of an overdose can include dizziness, confusion, and difficulty speaking.
4. Can I drink alcohol while taking lacosamide?
It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking lacosamide, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
5. Can I take lacosamide with other medications?
Lacosamide can interact with other medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and sedatives. It is recommended to talk to your doctor before taking any new medications while taking lacosamide.
Sources
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Lacosamide Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-RE-45444>
2. FDA. (2022). Lacosamide. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/lacosamide>
3. Epilepsy Foundation. (2022). Lacosamide. Retrieved from <https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/medications/lacosamide>
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