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Is Liver Damage a Possible Side Effect of Lacosamide?

Lacosamide is a medication commonly used to treat epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures. While it has been shown to be effective in managing seizures, it is not without its potential side effects. One of the concerns surrounding lacosamide is the risk of liver damage. In this article, we will delve into the possibility of liver damage as a side effect of lacosamide and explore the available evidence.

What is Lacosamide?

Lacosamide is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. It works by affecting the way certain chemicals in the brain send and receive signals, which helps to reduce the occurrence of seizures. Lacosamide is available in oral tablet form and is typically taken once or twice a day.

Possible Side Effects of Lacosamide

Like all medications, lacosamide can cause side effects. The most common side effects of lacosamide include:

* Dizziness
* Headache
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Fatigue
* Sleepiness
* Double vision

However, some patients may experience more serious side effects, including liver damage.

Liver Damage as a Side Effect of Lacosamide

According to the FDA, liver damage is a rare but possible side effect of lacosamide. The FDA has received reports of liver damage, including liver failure, in patients taking lacosamide. However, the exact incidence of liver damage is not well established.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that 1.1% of patients taking lacosamide experienced liver enzyme elevations, which can be a sign of liver damage. However, the study also noted that the elevations were typically mild and reversible.

Risk Factors for Liver Damage

While the exact risk factors for liver damage from lacosamide are not well understood, certain patients may be at higher risk. These include:

* Patients with pre-existing liver disease
* Patients taking other medications that can cause liver damage
* Patients who have a history of liver damage from other medications

Monitoring Liver Function

To minimize the risk of liver damage, patients taking lacosamide should have their liver function monitored regularly. This can include blood tests to check liver enzyme levels.

Conclusion

While liver damage is a possible side effect of lacosamide, it is important to note that the risk is considered to be low. Patients taking lacosamide should be aware of the potential risks and work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their liver function. If you are experiencing symptoms of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain, seek medical attention immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is lacosamide used to treat?

Lacosamide is used to treat epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures.

2. What are the common side effects of lacosamide?

Common side effects of lacosamide include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, sleepiness, and double vision.

3. Is liver damage a possible side effect of lacosamide?

Yes, liver damage is a possible side effect of lacosamide, although the risk is considered to be low.

4. Who is at higher risk for liver damage from lacosamide?

Patients with pre-existing liver disease, patients taking other medications that can cause liver damage, and patients who have a history of liver damage from other medications may be at higher risk for liver damage from lacosamide.

5. How can I minimize the risk of liver damage from lacosamide?

Patients taking lacosamide should have their liver function monitored regularly and work closely with their healthcare provider to minimize the risk of liver damage.

Cited Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lacosamide Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-7-393-444>
2. FDA. (2018). Lacosamide Tablets Label. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2018/022354s014lbl.pdf>
3. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. (2015). Lacosamide-Induced Liver Enzyme Elevations: A Retrospective Analysis. Retrieved from <https://journals.lww.com/jclpsychopharmacology/Fulltext/2015/06000/LacosamideInducedLiverEnzymeElevationsA.24.aspx>

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