About
Lacosamide is an anti convulsant used to control seizures/fits. It is used with other medicines particularly to treat partial seizures in children/teenagers with epilepsy.
It must be prescribed by a doctor. You should never give your child anyone else's medications.
Side effects
All medications have side effects. Not everyone will experience side effects.
Common side effects
- Dizziness - this is one of the main side effects
- Impaired coordination
- Memory impairment
- Blurred vision, double vision
- Drowsiness or lethargy
- Pruritus (itchy skin)
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation
Other possible side effects
- Mood changes: anxiety, depression
- Irritability
- Tics
- Palpitations
- Irregular heart beat
- Weight loss due to nausea and vomiting
- Dyspepsia
- Dry mouth
Interactions
Your Doctor will check and make sure that other drugs your child is taking are compatible with Lacosamide. There are some drugs such as Carbamazepine and Phenytoin that should be used with caution.
This is also important if you are giving your child herbal or complementary medicines. The doctor can check to make sure they are compatible.
Tell your doctor if your child has a heart problem. An ECG may need to be done.
Need-to-know
Monitoring and medication levels
There is no need to do regular blood monitoring with Lacosamide.
Some doctors may want to do a base-line ECG before starting the medication. This is to ensure there are no prior problems with the electrical conduction of the heart.
Pregnancy and contraception
If a pregnancy is planned, a discussion with your neurologist is recommended. For further information, refer to the Contraception and Pregnancy section.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this handout is limited and does not replace the need for a medical consultation. It is very important you speak to your doctor about all aspects of your medication including side effects when medication is first prescribed. Report any concerns to your doctor promptly.