6 Lacosamide Side Effects & Safety Tips for Prevention | Credihealth

Lacosamide is used to control seizures, but like any medication, it comes with side effects. Some show up early and fade, while others stick around.  Some users experience dizziness, fatigue, or more serious reactions. A few may even get worse with time. Like any medication, it’s essential to understand lacosamide side effects before starting treatment.

In this article, we’ll break down the common, rare, and potentially serious side effects of lacosamide—so you know what to expect and when to seek medical advice. Let’s get started!

6 Lacosamide Side Effects: Common, Serious & Long-Term

Lacosamide works by slowing down nerve signals in the brain. This helps with seizures but can also affect other systems in your body. The nervous system, digestion, vision, and heart function are all linked, so side effects can appear in different ways.

1. Dizziness and Balance Problems

One of the most common complaints is dizziness. Many people feel lightheaded soon after taking their dose. For some, this sensation fades over time. But others find it lingers.

Signs that dizziness is becoming a problem:

• Feeling wobbly when walking or standing.

• Struggling with hand-eye coordination.

• Slow reaction times.

• Shaky hands or an unsteady gait.

These issues make daily tasks harder. If you find yourself tripping, dropping things, or feeling like the room is spinning, it may be time to talk to your doctor. A small change in dosage could make a big difference.

2. Stomach Problems That Stick Around

Most people expect some nausea when they start a new medication. Lacosamide is no different. Some experience an upset stomach for a few days, while others struggle with digestion for weeks.

Common stomach issues include:

• Feeling sick after eating.

• Loss of appetite and weight loss.

• Constipation or loose stools.

• A dry mouth that doesn’t go away.

If stomach problems don’t improve, small changes may help. Drinking more water, eating smaller meals, or taking medication at a different time of day can sometimes ease discomfort.

3. Blurry Vision and Eye Strain

Some people notice changes in their eyesight after taking lacosamide. The drug can make it harder to focus, especially when reading or using screens.

Symptoms of vision problems include:

• Blurred vision that comes and goes.

• Difficulty reading small text.

• Eye strain or discomfort after long periods of focus.

• Seeing double or noticing uncontrolled eye movements.

If you feel like your eyesight has changed, an eye check-up can help rule out other causes. Some people find that these symptoms improve over time, but for others, adjustments may be needed.

Lacosamide is generally safe, but in some cases, it may cause more serious issues. If you take this drug for months or years, you should keep an eye on your heart, mental health, and immune response.

The following are the Serious Long-Term Risks of Lacosamide:

4. Heart Issues: A Silent Concern

Lacosamide affects how electrical signals move in the heart. For most people, this isn’t a problem. But for a small group, it can lead to heart rhythm changes.

Signs of heart issues include:

If you have a history of heart problems, regular check-ups are important. Changes in heart rhythm may not always cause symptoms, so an ECG may be needed to check for hidden issues.

5. Mood Swings and Emotional Changes

Some people experience shifts in mood when taking lacosamide. These changes may be mild, or they can be severe enough to affect relationships and work.

Common emotional effects include:

In rare cases, some patients have reported thoughts of self-harm. If mood swings become overwhelming, it’s important to reach out for help. A dose adjustment or switching to another medication may help stabilize emotions.

6. Allergic Reactions and Skin Issues

Some people develop rashes or itching after taking lacosamide for a long time. While mild irritation is not unusual, severe allergic reactions are rare but serious.

Watch out for:

• Swelling in the face or throat.

• Red, patchy skin or hives.

• Difficulty breathing.

If you experience these symptoms, stop taking the medication and seek medical help immediately.

How Common Are These Side Effects?

Lacosamide has been tested in clinical trials, and some side effects are more common than others.

Most people will experience at least one of these side effects. Some go away, while others require medical attention. 

Most people experience at least one of these side effects, but not all require stopping the medication.

Managing Lacosamide Side Effects

If you’re struggling with side effects, don’t stop taking the medication suddenly. That could cause withdrawal symptoms or more seizures. Instead, talk to your doctor about possible solutions.

Things that may help:

• Adjusting the dose to a lower level.

• Changing when you take the medicine to reduce dizziness.

• Drinking more water to help with dry mouth and nausea.

• Getting regular check-ups to monitor heart and mental health.

For some people, switching to a different medication may be the best option.

Is Long-Term Use Safe?

For most people, lacosamide is safe to take long-term. However the body can change over time, and some effects may appear later. Regular health check-ups help catch any problems early.

In adults with benzodiazepine-resistant seizures, higher doses of lacosamide were shown to be more effective. However, side effects may also increase with higher doses.

If you’ve been taking lacosamide for a while, keep track of any new symptoms. Even mild effects can add up over time.

Conclusion: Pay Attention to Lacosamide Side Effects

Lacosamide helps control seizures, but lacosamide side effects can make daily life harder. Dizziness, nausea, and fatigue are the most common issues. Long-term users should also watch for vision problems, mood swings, and heart irregularities.

If side effects get worse or start affecting your routine, talk to your doctor. Small changes in dosage or timing may help. Staying informed makes it easier to manage the medication and live comfortably.

If this article helped you share it with others who might be dealing with lacosamide side effects. Understanding how a drug works is the first step to managing it better.

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