Lacotide 50 Mg Tablet

LACOTIDE 50 MG TABLET is an anticonvulsant medication manufactured by Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd..

Name

• Brand Name: LACOTIDE 50 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Lacosamide (active ingredient)

Composition

Each tablet contains Lacosamide 50 mg as the active ingredient.

Uses

LACOTIDE 50 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat partial-onset seizures (seizures affecting one part of the brain) in adults and children aged 1 month and older. It is also used in combination with other medications to control primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (seizures involving the entire body) in adults and children aged 4 years and older. This medication helps manage and prevent epilepsy by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

Dosage and Administration

LACOTIDE 50 MG TABLET should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor, typically twice daily, with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, broken, or chewed. The usual starting dose for adults is 50 mg twice daily, with a maximum recommended dose of 400 mg per day. It is crucial not to stop the medication suddenly to avoid precipitating seizures.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision or double vision (diplopia)
• Fatigue/Sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Muscle spasms/Tremor

Serious side effects, though less common, can include allergic reactions, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, mood changes, cognitive function changes, and cardiac effects.

Precautions

• Allergy: Do not use if allergic to lacosamide or its components.
• Heart Conditions: Use with caution in patients with a history of heart rhythm problems (e.g., AV block, atrial fibrillation), as it can affect heart rate and rhythm.
• Kidney and Liver: Exercise caution in patients with kidney or liver problems.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor, as its use is generally not recommended unless clearly necessary.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase dizziness and sleepiness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision; avoid these activities until effects are known.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Monitor for mood changes, new or worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts.
• Addiction Risk: May carry a potential risk of addiction, especially with a history of substance use disorder.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, and out of sight and reach of children. It should be stored at temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about LACOTIDE 50 MG TABLET:

What is Lacotide 50 MG Tablet used for?

Lacotide 50 MG Tablet, containing lacosamide, is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults and children aged 1 month and older. It is also used in combination with other medications to control primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children aged 4 years and older.

How does Lacotide 50 MG Tablet work?

Lacosamide, the active ingredient in Lacotide 50 MG Tablet, works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It does this by enhancing the "slow inactivation" of voltage-gated sodium channels on nerve cells, which helps to prevent neurons from firing excessively or too quickly and stabilize nerve signal transmission.

What is the usual dosage of Lacotide 50 MG Tablet?

For adults and adolescents weighing 50 kg or more, the usual starting dose is 50 mg twice daily (100 mg per day), which may be increased weekly by 50 mg twice daily. The recommended maintenance dose for adjunctive therapy is typically between 100 mg and 200 mg twice daily (200 mg to 400 mg per day). For monotherapy, the maintenance dose can range from 100 mg to 300 mg twice daily (200 mg to 600 mg per day). Doses for children are weight-based and should be determined by a doctor. Lacotide can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of Lacotide 50 MG Tablet?

Common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, double vision, blurred vision, sleepiness, unsteadiness, and problems with coordination or walking. More serious, though rare, side effects can include allergic reactions (such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing), changes in heart rhythm (like PR prolongation), and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Is Lacotide 50 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There is limited data regarding the use of lacosamide during pregnancy, but current evidence suggests relative safety, with studies reporting normal birth outcomes and no major malformations in newborns. However, effective antiepileptic therapy should not be interrupted during pregnancy, as uncontrolled seizures can be detrimental to both mother and fetus. Lacosamide is excreted into breast milk at low levels, and while some infants have been breastfed without adverse effects, careful monitoring for drowsiness and adequate weight gain is recommended, especially for newborns or preterm infants.

Can Lacotide 50 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Lacosamide can interact with other medications. It should be used with caution if you are taking drugs that slow the heart rate, such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or certain anti-arrhythmia medications, as this can increase the risk of heart rhythm problems. Other anti-seizure medications, sedatives, alcohol, some antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin), antifungals (e.g., fluconazole, ketoconazole), antivirals, and even grapefruit products may also interact with lacosamide. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while taking Lacotide 50 MG Tablet?

Do not stop taking Lacotide 50 MG Tablet suddenly, as this can lead to an increase in seizure frequency or the occurrence of severe seizures. You should be monitored for any unusual changes in mood or behavior, including suicidal thoughts. Use caution if you have known heart problems or are taking other medications that affect heart rate, as lacosamide can cause changes in heart rhythms. Since it may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Patients with liver or kidney impairment may require dosage adjustments. The oral solution contains aspartame, which is a source of phenylalanine, and should be considered for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU).

What happens if a dose of Lacotide 50 MG Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Lacotide 50 MG Tablet, 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 Lacotide 50 MG Tablet be stored?

Lacotide 50 MG Tablet should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), and kept away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.