Laconext 150

LACONEXT 150 by LUPIN LTD.

Name

• Common Name: Lacosamide
• Brand Name: LACONEXT 150

Composition

LACONEXT 150 contains Lacosamide 150 mg as its active ingredient.

Uses

LACONEXT 150 is an anticonvulsant primarily used to treat focal (partial-onset) seizures in adults and children aged 4 years and older. It works by decreasing disorganized electrical activity in the brain and stabilizing overactive nerve cells, thereby reducing the occurrence and severity of seizures. It can be prescribed as monotherapy or as an add-on therapy with other antiepileptic medicines. It may also be used to manage primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

Dosage and Administration

LACONEXT 150 should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually orally with or without food, at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, broken, or chewed.

• Adults: The typical initial dosage is 50 mg twice daily, which may be gradually increased up to a maximum of 400 mg per day based on individual response. A common daily dose for adults is between 300 and 400 mg, taken in two doses.
• Children (4 years and older): Dosage is determined by a healthcare provider based on the child's body weight.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
• Overdose: An overdose can cause severe dizziness, double vision, unsteadiness, nausea, headache, extreme fatigue, confusion, or coordination problems. Contact a doctor immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, nausea, double vision (diplopia), fatigue, sleepiness, unsteadiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, muscle spasms, vomiting, diarrhea, mood disturbances, and trouble walking. These are often temporary and may improve over time.
• Serious Side Effects: LACONEXT 150 can potentially lead to suicidal thoughts or behavior, severe allergic reactions, skin or organ problems, and heart problems such as heart block, arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or heart failure.

Precautions

• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking LACONEXT 150 suddenly without consulting a doctor, as abrupt cessation can increase seizure frequency.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Caution is advised, and LACONEXT 150 is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly necessary, as it may pass into breast milk.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can intensify side effects like dizziness and sleepiness.
• Liver & Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems. It is not recommended for severe liver problems or severe kidney impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 ml/min).
• Heart Conditions: Exercise caution if you have heart conditions such as heart block, arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, heart failure, or have had a heart attack. It is not recommended for individuals with second or third-degree AV block.
• Mental Health: Patients with a history of depression or suicidal thoughts should be closely monitored. Report any unusual mood changes or suicidal thoughts to your doctor.
• Driving & Operating Machinery: LACONEXT 150 may cause dizziness, double vision, unsteadiness, or decreased alertness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medicine affects you.
• Elderly Patients: Older patients may be more sensitive to the effects and should use this medication under medical supervision, possibly starting with a lower dose.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions. Antifungals are generally not recommended with LACONEXT 150.
• Weight: Monitor your weight during treatment, as LACONEXT 150 can cause weight gain.

Storage

Store LACONEXT 150 at room temperature, not exceeding 30°C (or between 10°C to 25°C), in a dry place. Keep it in its original packaging, protected from light and moisture, and out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the package.

Here are frequently asked questions about Laconext 150:

What is Laconext 150 used for?

Laconext 150, which contains the active ingredient Lacosamide, is used for the treatment and prevention of seizures, specifically focal (partial-onset) seizures, in adults and children aged 4 years and older. It can be used alone or in combination with other anti-epileptic medications.

How does Laconext 150 work?

Laconext 150 works by stabilizing the electrical activity of nerve cells in the brain. It does this by slowly inactivating voltage-gated sodium channels, which helps to decrease disorganized electrical activity and reduce repetitive neuronal firing, thereby controlling seizures.

What is the usual dosage of Laconext 150?

For adults, the typical starting dose is usually 50 mg twice daily, which may be gradually increased by your doctor to a maximum of 400 mg per day. The dosage for children (4 years and older) is determined based on their body weight. It should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food, and swallowed whole without crushing or chewing. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.

What are the possible side effects of Laconext 150?

Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, nausea, double vision, fatigue, unsteadiness, dry mouth, muscle spasms, blurred vision, confusion, vomiting, diarrhea, and mood disturbances. Some individuals may experience weight gain. More severe but rare side effects can include hallucinations, abnormal liver function, and thoughts of self-harm or suicidal tendencies.

Is Laconext 150 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Laconext 150 is generally advised with caution during pregnancy, and it is recommended to avoid its use unless clearly necessary, as animal studies have shown potential harmful effects and human data is limited. For breastfeeding, caution is also advised as the medicine may pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby, although limited studies show low levels in milk and varied infant effects. It is crucial to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, to weigh the benefits and potential risks.

Can Laconext 150 be taken with other medications?

Yes, but you should inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take. Laconext 150 can interact with certain medications, including some heart medicines (like beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmics) which may affect heart rhythm. Medicines that are CYP2C19 substrates (e.g., omeprazole, clopidogrel) may also have altered effectiveness.

What precautions should be taken while taking Laconext 150?

Do not stop taking Laconext 150 suddenly, as this can lead to an increase in seizure frequency. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing heart conditions, liver or kidney disease, or a history of depression or suicidal thoughts. Since Laconext 150 can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medication affects you. It is also advisable to avoid alcohol, as it can increase these side effects.

What happens if a dose of Laconext 150 is missed?

If you miss a dose of Laconext 150, 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 the missed one. Missing a dose can be problematic and potentially trigger seizures.

How should Laconext 150 be stored?

Laconext 150 should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, and out of reach of children and pets. Keep the tablets in their original packaging to protect them from light and moisture, ideally at room temperature not exceeding 30°C.