Vimpat (Lacosamide) for Epilepsy

Overview
Vimpat is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to control partial-onset seizures in people 4 years of age and older. Vimpat may be prescribed alone or together with other drugs. Vimpat is also referred to by its drug name, lacosamide.

Vimpat is an anticonvulsant, or in other words, a drug used to prevent and control seizures. It is believed to work in cases of epilepsy by inhibiting nerve signals in the brain.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Vimpat is taken orally as a tablet or liquid or injected intravenously (into your vein). Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of Vimpat and gradually increase the dosage.

Do not stop taking Vimpat suddenly. If you decide to stop taking Vimpat, consult your physician for a plan to reduce your dosage gradually.

Vimpat should be taken exactly as prescribed by a physician.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Vimpat lists common side effects including dizziness, nausea, headache, and double vision. Some of these side effects may fade as your body acclimates to Vimpat.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Vimpat include heart function abnormalities, fainting, and severe allergic reactions.

Rarely, some people experience neurological symptoms including depression or suicidal thoughts and behavior while taking Vimpat. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects.

Call your doctor if you experience fatigue, fainting, chest pain, abnormal heartbeat, shortness of breath, fever, rash, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or dark-colored urine while taking Vimpat.

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you are certain you understand how Vimpat affects you.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Vimpat — UCB
https://www.vimpat.com

Lacosamide — Epilepsy Foundation
https://www.epilepsy.com/medications/lacosamide