Lacosamide indications?

What conditions are treated with lacosamide?

Lacosamide is a medication approved by the FDA to treat seizures in epilepsy patients. According to the FDA label, it is specifically indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults, adolescents, and children as young as two years old with epilepsy [1].

How does lacosamide compare to other anti-epileptic medications?

Lacosamide works by stabilizing the inactivated state of voltage-gated sodium channels, which can help reduce the spread of abnormal excitement from neuron to neuron in the brain. Compared to other anti-epileptic medications, lacosamide has a novel mechanism of action, which is a key differentiator in the market [2].

Who makes lacosamide?

Lacosamide is manufactured by UCB Pharma, a Belgian multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. According to the DrugPatentWatch database, UCB holds exclusive rights to market the medication until the patent expires [3].

What are the side effects of lacosamide?

Common side effects of lacosamide include dizziness, headache, fatigue, and nausea. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as seizures, tremors, and confusion have been reported. Patients with a history of suicidal behavior or depression should exercise caution when taking the medication [4].

Sources:

[1] FDA: Lacosamide Tablets (available at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/nda/2008/022434Lacosamide_TOC.cfm)

[2] Epilepsia: "Lacosamide, A Novel Antiepileptic Drug, Inhibits Low-Voltage–Activated Sodium Channels in Cultured Hippocampal Neurons" (available at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01916.x)

[3] DrugPatentWatch: Lacosamide Patent Listing (available at https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/UCBPharma/US-7839211-B2)

[4] UCB: Lacosamide Full Prescribing Information (available at https://www.ucb-med.com/healthcare-professionals/lacosamide.html)