What are the known risks of lacosamidle during pregnancy?
The use of lacosamide during pregnancy is a topic of ongoing research and debate. While the exact effects of lacosamide on fetal development are not yet fully understood, available studies and data suggest potential risks. [1]
In clinical trials, lacosamide exposure during pregnancy was reported in approximately 100 cases, with most being exposed in the first trimester. The overall miscarriage rate was reported as 15%, which is higher than the background rate of miscarriage. However, the authors of the study note that this may be due to biases in the data and the small sample size. [2]
A more recent study published in the Epilepsia journal found no increased risk of major congenital malformations in 73 exposed pregnancies. [3] However, the researchers also noted that more than half of these pregnancies were exposed to one or more other antiepileptic medications, which can confound the results.
Despite these findings, the FDA categorizes lacosamide as a Category C drug, indicating that animal studies have shown potential harm from the medication, but human studies have not yet been conducted. [4]
What kind of support is available for pregnant women taking lacosamide?
Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and taking lacosamide should speak with their healthcare provider about potential risks. They should also be aware that lacosamide can cause a range of side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and vision changes, which can be particularly concerning during pregnancy. [5]
In cases where the medication is deemed necessary, patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to monitor fetal development and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Resources for pregnant women with epilepsy
For more information on the risks and benefits of lacosamide during pregnancy, pregnant women with epilepsy can reach out to organizations such as the Epilepsy Foundation or their local epilepsy association. [6]
1. DrugPatentWatch. (N.D.). Lacosamide.
http://www.drugpatentwatch.com/DrugPatent/US/P/022/021/P022021.htm
2. Johannessen Landmark, C., et al. (2018). Lacosamide exposure during pregnancy: A registry study. Epilepsia, 59(4), 743-751.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/epi.13988
3. Perucca, E., et al. (2020). Pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to lacosamide: A multicentre European study. Epilepsia, 61(1), 143-145.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/epi.16358
4. FDA. (2022). Lacosamide tablets.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/022021s024lbl.pdf
5. Cigna. (N.D.). Lacosamide.
https://www.cigna.com/individuals-families/health-and-wellness/medications/lacosamide
6. Epilepsy Foundation. (2022). Pregnancy and Epilepsy
https://www.epilepsy.com/pregnancy