Vimpat (lacosamide Tablet and Injection) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Vimpat

Seizures Symptoms and Types »

Generalized seizures

There are six types of generalized seizures. The most common and dramatic, and therefore the most well known, is the generalized convulsion, also called the grand-mal seizure. In this type of seizure, the patient loses consciousness and usually collapses. The loss of consciousness is followed by generalized body stiffening (called the "tonic" phase of the seizure) for 30 to 60 seconds, then by violent jerking (the "clonic" phase) for 30 to 60 seconds, after which the patient goes into a deep sleep (the "postictal" or after-seizure phase). During grand-mal seizures, injuries and accidents may occur, such as tongue biting and urinary incontinence.

Absence seizures cause a short loss of consciousness (just a few seconds) with few or no symptoms. The patient, most often a child, typically interrupts an activity and stares blankly. These seizures begin and end abruptly and may occur several times a day. Patients are usu...

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Vimpat Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

LACOSAMIDE - ORAL

(la-KOE-sa-mide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Vimpat

USES: Lacosamide is used to prevent and control seizures. It is an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug. It works by reducing the spread of seizure activity in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking lacosamide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day with or without food.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Seizures may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Though it is very unlikely to occur, this medication can result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit-forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed. Properly stop this medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.

Tell your doctor immediately if your seizure control worsens (such as the number of seizures increases).