Lacosamide in patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy

Introduction: Lacosamide is a novel antiepileptic drug licensed in the US and Europe as adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults. The efficacy, safety, tolerability and favorable pharmacokinetic profile in the adult population suggest that lacosamide could be of benefit for patients with partial-onset seizures. Areas covered: This paper reviews the available evidence and most recent data concerning the efficacy, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of lacosamide in adults, as well as in the pediatric population. Expert opinion: Lacosamide is one of the newest drugs of the antiepileptic armamentarium, and it is expected to compete directly with compounds that are currently used for adjunctive therapy in adults with refractory partial epilepsy. The intravenous formulation may be used for replacement therapy in patients temporarily unable to take oral medication. An apparent lack of sedative or cognitive effects might render this drug preferable in patients with mental insufficiency and/or epileptic encephalopathy.