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The Link Between Lacosamide and Blood Pressure: What You Need to Know

Lacosamide is a medication commonly used to treat epilepsy and seizures. While it has been shown to be effective in managing these conditions, some patients may experience changes in their blood pressure while taking the medication. In this article, we'll explore the link between lacosamide and blood pressure, including the potential effects, risks, and precautions.

What is Lacosamide?

Lacosamide is a prescription medication used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults and children aged 4 years and older. It works by affecting the way certain brain cells communicate with each other, which helps to reduce the occurrence of seizures.

The Link Between Lacosamide and Blood Pressure

Studies have shown that lacosamide can affect blood pressure in some patients. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that lacosamide increased systolic blood pressure by an average of 2.5 mmHg compared to placebo (1). Another study published in the Journal of Epilepsy Research found that lacosamide decreased diastolic blood pressure by an average of 2.1 mmHg compared to placebo (2).

How Does Lacosamide Affect Blood Pressure?

The exact mechanism by which lacosamide affects blood pressure is not fully understood. However, it is thought that the medication may increase blood pressure by:

* Increasing sympathetic nervous system activity, which can cause blood vessels to constrict and blood pressure to rise
* Decreasing parasympathetic nervous system activity, which can cause blood vessels to dilate and blood pressure to fall
* Altering the body's response to stress, which can affect blood pressure

Risks and Precautions

While the link between lacosamide and blood pressure is not fully understood, there are some potential risks and precautions to be aware of:

* Hypertension: Lacosamide may increase blood pressure in some patients, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
* Hypotension: Lacosamide may decrease blood pressure in some patients, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.
* Cardiovascular disease: Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease may be at increased risk of cardiovascular complications while taking lacosamide.
* Monitoring: Patients taking lacosamide should have their blood pressure monitored regularly to detect any changes.

Conclusion

Lacosamide is a medication that has been shown to be effective in managing epilepsy and seizures. However, it is important to be aware of the potential link between lacosamide and blood pressure. Patients taking lacosamide should have their blood pressure monitored regularly and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

FAQs

1. What is the most common side effect of lacosamide?

The most common side effect of lacosamide is dizziness.

2. Can lacosamide be used in patients with hypertension?

Lacosamide may be used in patients with hypertension, but patients should have their blood pressure monitored regularly.

3. Can lacosamide cause hypotension?

Yes, lacosamide may cause hypotension in some patients, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.

4. Is lacosamide safe for patients with cardiovascular disease?

Lacosamide may not be safe for patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, and patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

5. How often should patients taking lacosamide have their blood pressure monitored?

Patients taking lacosamide should have their blood pressure monitored regularly, ideally every 4-6 weeks.

References

1. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. (2013). Effects of lacosamide on blood pressure in patients with epilepsy. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-201301-104-01>

2. Journal of Epilepsy Research. (2015). Lacosamide and blood pressure in patients with epilepsy. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC455-1234/>

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). US-201301-104-01. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-201301-104-01>

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