Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Vimpat (Lacosamide).
Behaviour changes and suicidal thoughts: Some people taking medications to treat epilepsy and seizure have experienced Depression, including thoughts of suicide. If you experience any behaviour changes or symptoms such as sad mood, hopelessness, feelings of guilt, loss of pleasure or interest in activities, changes in sleep pattern, irritability, or restlessness while taking Vimpat (Lacosamide), contact your doctor immediately. Family members or caregivers of people who are taking Vimpat (Lacosamide) should contact the person's doctor immediately if they notice unusual behaviour changes.
Heart problems: People with heart disease, heart rhythm problems, heart failure, or heart block, or people who are taking medications that may cause abnormal ECG (electrocardiogram) such as Propranolol, Metoprolol, Carbamazepine, Pregabalin, or Lamotrigine, should discuss with their doctor how Vimpat (Lacosamide) may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Vimpat (Lacosamide), and whether any special monitoring is need. Your doctor may advise you to get an ECG done before starting Vimpat (Lacosamide) and after starting Vimpat (Lacosamide). Vimpat (Lacosamide) is not recommended for people with second- or third-degree AV block.
Hypersensitivity syndrome: A Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) called hypersensitivity syndrome has occurred for some people who take Vimpat (Lacosamide). Stop taking the medication and get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including Fever, swollen glands, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or flu-like symptoms with skin rash or blistering.
Injury or falls: Vimpat (Lacosamide) may cause dizziness and a decrease in muscle coordination, which can lead to accidental injury or falls. While taking Vimpat (Lacosamide), do not drive a car, operate a complex machine, or perform hazardous tasks until you know how much Vimpat (Lacosamide) affects your ability to perform these tasks.
Kidney function: If you have decreased kidney function discuss with your doctor how Vimpat (Lacosamide) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Vimpat (Lacosamide), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Vimpat (Lacosamide) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Vimpat (Lacosamide) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Vimpat (Lacosamide), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may want to test your liver function regularly with blood tests while you are taking Vimpat (Lacosamide).
Vimpat (Lacosamide) may rarely cause decreased liver function. If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Stopping treatment: Vimpat (Lacosamide) should be stopped gradually over a period of at least 1 week, as directed by your doctor. Do not suddenly stop taking Vimpat (Lacosamide) as this can increase the risk of seizures. Do not stop Vimpat (Lacosamide) without talking to your doctor.
Vision changes: People taking Vimpat (Lacosamide) should immediately report blurred vision or double vision to their doctor.
Pregnancy: Vimpat (Lacosamide) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Vimpat (Lacosamide), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Vimpat (Lacosamide) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Vimpat (Lacosamide), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Vimpat (Lacosamide) have not been established for children.
Seniors: People over the age of 65 may be more at risk of developing side effects from Vimpat (Lacosamide), particularly falls.
