Lacosamide injection

What is this medicine?

LACOSAMIDE (la KOE sa mide) is used to control seizures caused by certain types of epilepsy.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

A special MedGuide will be given to you before each treatment. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• confusion

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• fever

• irregular heart beat

• loss of memory

• pain or redness at site where injected

• suicidal thoughts or other mood changes

• unusually weak or tired

• yellowing of the eyes, skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation

• diarrhea

• drowsiness

• dry mouth

• headache

• nausea

What may interact with this medicine?

• atazanavir

• beta-blockers like metoprolol and propranolol

• calcium channel blockers like diltiazem and verapamil

• digoxin

• dronedarone

• lopinavir/ritonavir

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medicine is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will not be given this medicine to store at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• dehydration

• heart disease, including heart failure

• history of a drug or alcohol abuse problem

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member

• an unusual or allergic reaction to lacosamide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

Wear a medical ID bracelet or chain, and carry a card that describes your disease and details of your medicine and dosage times.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.