Lamictal

Generic name: Lamotrigine

What is Lamictal?

Lamictal is used either alone or in combination with other medicines to treat seizures in adults and children 2 years and older.

Lamictal is also used for maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder to help prevent mood swings in adults 18 years and older.

What is the most important information I should know about Lamictal?

All patients who are currently taking or are about to start drugs for epilepsy should be closely monitored for changes in behavior that indicate the emergence or worsening of suicidal thoughts or behavior or depression.

Rarely, serious and possibly fatal rashes have been reported with the use of Lamictal. Although most patients who develop rash while receiving Lamictal have mild to moderate symptoms, some individuals may develop a serious skin reaction that requires hospitalization. Because of this risk, it's important to contact your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: fever, hives, painful sores in your mouth or around your eyes, skin rash, swelling of your lips or tongue, swollen lymph glands

These serious skin reactions are most likely to happen within the first 8 weeks of treatment and occur more often in children than adults. They are also more likely to happen if you take Lamictal with the anticonvulsant valproate (Depakene or Depakote); if you take a higher starting dose of Lamictal than your doctor prescribed; or if you increase your dose of Lamictal faster than prescribed.

Who should not take Lamictal?

Do not take Lamictal if you are allergic to the medication or any of its ingredients.

Lamictal is not approved for treating children or teenagers with mood disorders such as bipolar disorder or depression.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Lamictal?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Lamictal. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems; or if you have thoughts of harming yourself or committing suicide.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

There are very specific calculations for your starting dose and dosage increase schedule based on your age, weight, medical condition, and other medications you're taking. The dose of Lamictal must be increased slowly, generally every 1 to 2 weeks. It may take several weeks or months before your final dosage can be determined by your doctor.

How should I take Lamictal?

Lamictal tablets should be swallowed whole; chewing them may leave a bitter taste.

Lamictal CD is a form that comes as Chewable Dispersible tablets that may be swallowed whole, chewed, or mixed in water or diluted fruit juice. If chewing them, drink some water to aid in swallowing. To mix in liquid, add the tablets to a small amount of water or juice (1 teaspoon or enough to cover the tablets) in a glass. Approximately 1 minute later, mix the solution and take the entire amount at once.

What should I avoid while taking Lamictal?

Do not abruptly stop taking Lamictal without consulting your doctor first. Do not start or stop estrogen-containing birth control pills while taking Lamictal unless you have discussed with your doctor any dosage adjustments that might be necessary. Use caution before driving a car or operating complex, hazardous machinery until you know if Lamictal affects your ability to perform these tasks.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Lamictal?

If Lamictal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lamictal with the following: carbamazepine, estrogen-containing birth control pills, medicines that inhibit folic acid metabolism, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, topiramate, and valproate.

What are the possible side effects of Lamictal?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blurred or double vision, coordination problems, dizziness, headache, insomnia, nausea, rash, sleepiness, vomiting

The most serious side effect of Lamictal is a rash that can be life-threatening. See "What is the most important information I should know about this medication?" above.

Can I receive Lamictal if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Lamictal during pregnancy are not known. Lamictal can pass into breast milk, and the effects on the infant are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Lamictal?

Never double your dose of Lamictal if you miss a dose. Skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.

How should I store Lamictal?

Store at room temperature away from heat and light.