Lacosamide
| Drug monograph · NCLEX study reference | |
| Trade names | Vimpat |
|---|---|
| Therapeutic class | Anticonvulsant |
| Pharmacologic class | Sodium channel modulator |
| Onset / peak / duration | Effect over titration; PO and IV. |
| Half-life / level | Half-life about 13 hours; level not routine. |
| Routes | PO (oral), IV |
| High-alert (ISMP) | No |
| Black box warning | None |
| Antidote / reversal | None. |
| Pregnancy / lactation | Use only if essential. |
Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.
Lacosamide (brand name Vimpat) — Anticonvulsant; Sodium channel modulator.
Identification
- Therapeutic class: Anticonvulsant.
- Pharmacologic class: Sodium channel modulator.
Pharmacology
- Mechanism of action: Enhances slow inactivation of sodium channels.
- Onset / peak / duration: Effect over titration; PO and IV.
- Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 13 hours; level not routine.
Clinical use
- Indications: Focal seizures.
- Usual dose, route, frequency: Titrated PO or IV twice daily.
- Maximum dose / adjustments: Reduce in hepatic and severe renal impairment.
Safety
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity; caution with cardiac conduction problems.
- Black box warning: None.
- Interactions: Other PR-prolonging drugs, CNS depressants.
- Pregnancy / lactation: Use only if essential.
- High-alert: No.
Adverse effects
- Common side effects: Dizziness, headache, nausea, diplopia.
- Serious effects to report: PR-interval prolongation, syncope.
- Antidote / reversal: None.
Nursing process
- Assessment before administration: ECG if cardiac risk, seizure baseline.
- Interventions during therapy: Monitor ECG in at-risk patients.
- Monitor: Seizure frequency, ECG if indicated.
- Evaluation / expected outcome: Seizure control.
Patient teaching
- Patient teaching: Report fainting or palpitations.
- Notify provider if: Fainting, irregular heartbeat.
- Administration tips: With or without food; controlled substance (C-V).