Lacolep

Lacolep Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Lacolep is a brand name. Its generic name is Lacosamide.

Lacolep Introduction

Lacolep is a novel antiepileptic drug that is used in the treatment of partial onset seizures in adults with epilepsy. It is chemically related to the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, acetazolamide and thus shares a similar mechanism of action. It has a faster onset of action than traditional antiepileptic drugs and is easily absorbed into systemic circulation.

Uses for Lacolep

Lacolep is indicated for the treatment of partial onset seizures in adults with epilepsy. It has also been found to be effective in the treatment of pain associated with diabetic neuropathy.

Mechanism of Action

Lacolep works by prolonging the voltage-gated sodium channel inactivation, thereby increasing the inactivation of the depolarization-gated sodium channels. This leads to slower membrane depolarization, and thus decreases seizure activity. It also increases the excitability threshold of neurons, thereby further decreasing the seizure activity.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Lacolep typically works within one to two weeks. It takes about four to eight weeks to get the full benefit of this medication.

Absorption

Lacolep is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and peak plasma concentrations are reached within one hour. It has an absolute oral bioavailability of approximately 100%.

Route of Elimination

Lacolep is eliminated predominantly via renal excretion, with approximately 80% of the administered dose excreted unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose is 100-200mg twice daily. The dose should then be slowly increased to a maximum of 400mg two times a day. Lacolep can be taken with or without food.

Administration

Lacolep should be taken orally either with or without food. It should not be crushed, chewed or split. Swallow the medication whole with a glass of water. Do not alter the dose or stop taking this medication without the guidance of a doctor.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Lacolep are nausea, dizziness, headache, fatigue, and ataxia. Other potential side effects include tremor, depression, confusion, and rash.

Toxicity

Lacolep has a very low toxicity profile, and there have been no reports of significant toxicity associated with its use. It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medication.

Precautions

Patients taking lacosamide should inform their doctor of any other medications they are currently taking, as the drug may interact with anticonvulsants, tranquilizers, or sedatives. It may also interact with antacids, antibiotics, blood pressure medications, diuretics, HIV medications, and birth control pills. Do not stop taking lacosamide without consulting with a healthcare provider.

Interactions

Lacolep may interact with other antiepileptic medications such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, felbamate, oxcarbazepine, valproic acid, and zonisamide. It may also interact with other medications such as antacids, antibiotics, and birth control pills. Patients should always tell their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking.

Disease Interactions

Lacolep may interact with certain diseases or conditions such as liver or kidney disease, pregnancy, or lactation. Patients should always inform their doctor of any medical history or conditions in order to reduce the risk of drug interaction.

Drug Interactions

Lacolep may interact with other drugs. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking in order to prevent drug interaction. Drugs that may interact with lacosamide include anticonvulsants, tranquilizers, sedatives, antacids, antibiotics, and blood pressure medications.

Food Interactions

Lacolep should not be taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice as grapefruit may increase the levels of lacosamide in the body. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Lacolep is classified as pregnancy category C, meaning that it is unknown whether or not it may harm an unborn baby. Patients should always inform their doctor if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in order to reduce the risk of harm.

Lactation Use

It is unknown whether or not lacosamide is excreted in human milk. Patients should always inform their doctor if they are breastfeeding in order to minimize the risk of harm.

Acute Overdose

Signs and symptoms of an acute overdose may include confusion, agitation, sedation, nausea, and vomiting. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Contraindication

Lacolep is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medication. It should also not be used in patients who have a history of kidney or liver impairment or in those with a known hypersensitivity to carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Use Direction

The recommended starting dose of lacosamide is 100mg two times a day. The dose should be slowly increased to a maximum of 400mg two times a day. Lacolep should be taken orally with or without food. It should not be split, chewed, or crushed. Swallow the medication whole with a glass of water.

Storage Condition

Keep lacosamide in a tight, light-resistant container at room temperature. It should be stored away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not freeze this medication.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of lacosamide is approximately 19L, indicating a very low degree of tissue binding.

Half Life

The half-life of lacosamide is approximately 13 hours. This indicates that the drug has a relatively short half-life, allowing for quick and easy clearance from the body.

Clearance

The clearance of lacosamide is approximately 15 ml/min, making it a highly water-soluble drug.

Here you find in details version of Lacolep

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Lacolep

What is Lacolep?

Lacolep is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults with epilepsy.

How does Lacolep work?

Lacolep works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. It acts on sodium channels on the membrane of nerve cells in the brain, preventing the spread of seizure activity.

What are the potential side effects of Lacolep?

The most common side effects of lacosamide include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and fatigue. Other potential, less common side effects include abdominal pain, chest pain, confusion, skin rash, and difficulty sleeping. Talk to your doctor about possible side effects.

Is Lacolep an antidepressant?

No, lacosamide is not an antidepressant. It is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults with epilepsy.

Can I take Lacolep while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, Lacolep should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It may be harmful to an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Lacolep?

If you miss a dose of Lacolep, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of the medication.

What should I avoid while taking Lacolep?

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Lacolep, as it may increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid taking other medications that affect the brain, such as sedatives or antidepressants, without first talking to your doctor.

What is the usual dosage of Lacolep?

The usual starting dose of Lacolep is 200 mg, taken twice daily. Your doctor may increase the dosage up to 400 mg, taken twice daily, based on your response to treatment.

How long does it take for Lacolep to work?

It may take several weeks for Lacolep to reach its full effect. If you are not seeing any improvement in your symptoms after a few weeks of treatment, talk to your doctor.

Is Lacolep habit-forming?

No, lacosamide is not known to be habit-forming. However, it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

What should I tell my doctor before taking Lacolep?

Before taking Lacolep, tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, any medications you are taking, and any allergies you may have. Be sure to also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I take over-the-counter medications while taking Lacolep?

You should talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications while taking Lacolep, as some medications may interact with the medication and cause harmful effects.

What should I do if I experience a seizure?

If you experience a seizure, stay calm and stay in a safe place until the seizure stops. If the seizure does not stop, call 911 or your local emergency medical services.

What type of seizures does Lacolep treat?

Lacolep is used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults with epilepsy.

Can children take Lacolep?

No, Lacolep is not recommended for use in children. It should only be used in adults with epilepsy.

Will Lacolep affect my thinking and alertness?

Yes, Lacolep may cause changes in thinking and alertness. If this occurs, do not operate a vehicle or machinery until your thinking and alertness returns.

Is weight gain a potential side effect of Lacolep?

Weight gain has been reported as a potential side effect of Lacolep. Talk to your doctor if you experience an increase in appetite or weight gain while taking this medication.

Can I stop taking Lacolep suddenly?

No, you should not stop taking Lacolep suddenly. Doing so may increase your risk of seizures. Talk to your doctor before stopping or decreasing your dose of Lacolep.

Can I take other anticonvulsants while taking Lacolep?

Yes, you can take other anticonvulsants while taking Lacolep. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any medications.

How long does Lacolep stay in my system?

The half-life of Lacolep is typically between 12 and 14 hours. However, individual metabolism and other factors may affect the drug’s duration in the body.

What form(s) does Lacolep come in?

Lacolep comes in capsule form. It is typically taken two times a day.

Can I take Lacolep with other medications?

You should talk to your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Lacolep, as some medications may interact with the medication and cause harmful effects.

Does Lacolep contain gluten?

No, Lacolep does not contain gluten.

Does Lacolep cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of Lacolep. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience drowsiness while taking Lacolep.

What are the common drug interactions of Lacolep?

Common drug interactions of Lacolep include opioids, corticosteroids, anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, and hydantoins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential drug interactions.

Does Lacolep cause hair loss?

Hair loss has been reported as a potential side effect of Lacolep. Talk to your doctor if you experience hair loss while taking this medication.

Can Lacolep cause stomach pain?

Stomach pain is a possible side effect of Lacolep. Talk to your doctor if you experience any abdominal pain while taking this medication.

Is Lacolep addictive?

No, Lacolep is not known to be addictive. However, it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Does Lacolep interact with vitamins or supplements?

Yes, lacosamide may interact with certain vitamins or supplements. Talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements while taking this medication.

Does Lacolep have an expiration date?

Yes, Lacolep does have an expiration date. Check the expiration date before taking any medication.

Can I take Lacolep while breastfeeding?

No, Lacolep should not be used while breastfeeding. It may be harmful to a nursing baby. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options if you are breastfeeding.

How do I store Lacolep?

Lacolep should be stored at room temperature away from light, heat, and moisture. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot access it.

Can Lacolep cause problems with my liver?

Yes, Lacolep can cause problems with the liver. Your doctor may need to test your liver function periodically while taking the medication. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Is Lacolep safe for long-term use?

Yes, Lacolep is generally safe for long-term use. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication for a prolonged period of time.

Who manufactures Lacolep?

Lacolep is manufactured by Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

How should I take Lacolep?

Take Lacolep exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of the medication than recommended. Do not take the medication more often than prescribed.

What happens if I overdose on Lacolep?

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

Can I breastfeed while taking Lacolep?

No, Lacolep should not be used while breastfeeding. It may be harmful to a nursing baby. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options if you are breastfeeding.

Are there any alternative treatments for epilepsy?

Yes, there are other treatments for epilepsy, such as lifestyle modifications (e.g. exercise and stress reduction), dietary changes (e.g. following a ketogenic diet), and vitamins and supplements (e.g. omega-3 fatty acids). Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

Can I take Lacolep with other anticonvulsants?

Yes, you can take other anticonvulsants while taking Lacolep. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any medications.

Does Lacolep have withdrawal symptoms?

Yes, withdrawal symptoms may occur if you stop taking Lacolep suddenly. These symptoms may include seizures, dizziness, and fatigue. It is important to talk to your doctor before stopping or decreasing your dose of Lacolep.

Does Lacolep cause depression?

No, Lacolep is not known to cause depression. However, it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any changes in mood while taking this medication.

Is Lacolep available in generic form?

Yes, Lacolep is available in generic form. It is typically less expensive than brand-name medications.