Lacosam Inj

LACOSAM INJ by TORRENT PHARMA

LACOSAM INJ is an antiepileptic medication used to prevent and control seizures. It is manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd..

• Name:

  • Common Name: Lacosamide Injection
  • Brand Name: LACOSAM INJ (by Torrent Pharma), Vimpat (another brand for lacosamide)

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Lacosamide (10mg/ml)

• Uses: LACOSAM INJ is prescribed for:

  • Treating partial-onset seizures (focal seizures) in adults and children 1 month of age and older when oral administration is temporarily not feasible.
  • As an add-on therapy with other medications to control primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children 4 years of age and older who cannot take oral medications.
  • Working by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, thereby controlling seizures or fits.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Administered intravenously (into a vein) in a hospital or clinic setting.
  • Usually injected slowly over a period of 30 to 60 minutes in children and adults, or over 15 minutes in adults if necessary.
  • Typically given twice daily in children or adults. For children weighing 6 kg or less, it may be given three times daily.
  • The intravenous form is intended for temporary use, generally not exceeding 5 days.
  • Dosage is individualized based on age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
  • When transitioning from oral lacosamide, the total daily intravenous dosage should match the oral dosage and frequency.
  • A loading dose of 200 mg to 400 mg may be given, followed by maintenance dosing.
  • This medication should not be self-administered.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, drowsiness, blurred or double vision, loss of balance or coordination, fatigue, weakness, and irritation or pain at the injection site.
  • Serious: Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat), heart rhythm changes (fast/irregular heartbeat, chest pain, lightheadedness, fainting, PR prolongation, AV block), suicidal thoughts or actions, worsening depression, confusion, hallucinations, and serious skin reactions such as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS).

• Precautions:

  • Do not discontinue LACOSAM INJ abruptly; withdrawal should be gradual (over at least 1 week) to minimize the risk of increased seizure frequency.
  • This medication may cause dizziness, affect coordination, reaction time, and judgment. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
  • Monitor for signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially sudden changes in mood or behavior.
  • Use with caution in patients with underlying heart conditions or those taking other medications that affect cardiac conduction, as it can cause heart rhythm abnormalities. An ECG may be recommended.
  • Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with severe kidney or liver impairment.
  • Interactions can occur with certain other medications, including some antiarrhythmics, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and certain antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin).
  • LACOSAM INJ is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to lacosamide or a known second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block.
  • Lacosamide is a federally controlled substance (CV) due to the potential for abuse or dependence.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor. Lacosamide passes into breast milk and may cause increased sleepiness in the infant.

• Storage:

  • Store at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
  • Do not freeze.
  • Diluted solutions should not be stored for more than 4 hours at room temperature.
  • Any unused portion of the injection should be discarded.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.

LACOSAM INJ by TORRENT PHARMA is a medication containing Lacosamide, an anticonvulsant used to treat certain types of seizures. This injectable form is typically used when oral administration is not feasible.

Here are some frequently asked questions about LACOSAM INJ:

What is LACOSAM INJ used for?

LACOSAM INJ is used to control partial-onset seizures (seizures that begin in one part of the brain) in adults and children aged 1 month and older who cannot take oral medications. It is also used as an add-on therapy for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children 4 years and older.

How does LACOSAM INJ work?

Lacosamide, the active ingredient, works by selectively enhancing the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels in the brain. This action helps to stabilize overexcited nerve cells, preventing the rapid, repetitive firing of neurons that occurs during seizure activity.

What is the usual dosage of LACOSAM INJ?

The dosage of LACOSAM INJ is determined by a healthcare provider and can vary based on individual needs, age, weight, and whether it's used as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy. For adults, typical starting doses for adjunctive therapy can be 50 mg twice daily, increasing gradually to a maintenance dose, usually between 100-200 mg twice daily. A loading dose of 200 mg may be given for rapid effect. Doses are typically given intravenously over 30 to 60 minutes, or 15 minutes in adults if necessary, usually twice daily. The intravenous form is generally for temporary use, up to 5 days, transitioning to oral medication as soon as possible.

What are the possible side effects of LACOSAM INJ?

Common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, double vision (diplopia), blurred vision, drowsiness, fatigue, and problems with balance or coordination. More serious side effects can include changes in heart rhythm (fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting), thoughts of suicide or self-harm, and severe allergic reactions such as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), which can affect multiple organs.

Is LACOSAM INJ safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Limited information exists regarding its safety during pregnancy. There is a pregnancy exposure registry available (North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry) for those who become pregnant while on lacosamide. If breastfeeding, lacosamide can pass into breast milk, and it is important to monitor the infant for excessive sleepiness. Some studies suggest it may be relatively safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but careful monitoring is advised.

Can LACOSAM INJ be taken with other medications?

Caution is advised when LACOSAM INJ is used with other medications that can affect cardiac conduction, particularly those that prolong the PR interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers). It should also be used with caution with strong inhibitors of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, as these can increase lacosamide levels in the body. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What precautions should be taken while using LACOSAM INJ?

Do not stop LACOSAM INJ suddenly, as this can increase seizure frequency or lead to severe seizures (status epilepticus). This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or problems with coordination, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Your healthcare team will monitor your heart and overall condition, especially if you have pre-existing heart problems or are taking other cardiac medications. Be aware of any changes in mood or behavior, including suicidal thoughts, and report them immediately.

What happens if a dose of LACOSAM INJ is missed?

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should LACOSAM INJ be stored?

LACOSAM INJ vials should be stored at room temperature, typically between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Once diluted for infusion, the solution should be used within 4 hours at room temperature, and any unused portion must be discarded, as the product is preservative-free.