What is Lamotrigine?
Lamotrigine is a prescription medicine available in various forms, including immediate-release, extended-release, chewable, and orally disintegrating tablets. Brand names for lamotrigine include Lamictal, Lamictal XR, Lamictal CD, and Lamictal ODT, with generic versions also available.
Lamotrigine Uses:
- Lamotrigine is used to prevent and manage seizures, either alone or in conjunction with other drugs.
- It helps manage severe mood swings in adults with bipolar disorder.
- Functions as an anticonvulsant and antiepileptic by rebalancing brain chemicals.
- Not recommended for children under the age of two due to high risk of side effects.
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Get A Second OpinionHow to Use Lamotrigine?
- Read the Prescription Guide and Patient Information Leaflet.
- Take orally with or without food, swallow whole to avoid bitter taste.
- Dosage varies based on medical condition and reaction.
- Follow the doctor's dosing instructions carefully, dosage may need gradual increase.
- Take daily at the same time to maximize benefits.
- Do not stop taking abruptly; consult your doctor for gradual reduction if needed.
Lamotrigine Side Effects:
- Common: Loss of balance, double vision, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting.
- Less common: Weight loss, heartburn, stomach pain, back or joint pain, menstrual irregularities.
- Serious: Allergic reactions, severe dizziness, and fainting (especially in older adults).
Precautions:
- Inform your doctor if you have allergies, kidney disease, liver disease, or heart conditions.
- Older adults may experience more severe side effects.
- Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Birth control efficacy may be reduced; consult about alternatives.
Interactions:
- Be aware of potential interactions with hormonal birth control, estrogens, certain HIV drugs, rifampin, supplements, and herbs.
- Ensure your doctor monitors all medications, vitamins, and herbs you are taking.
Overdose and Missed Dose:
- In case of overdose, seek medical advice immediately.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, but skip if the next dose is near.
Storage:
- Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Dispose of properly when expired or no longer needed.
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Book an AppointmentComparison: Lamotrigine vs Lithium
| Lamotrigine | Lithium |
|---|---|
| Used for managing epilepsy and bipolar disorder. | Used for treating bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. |
| Treats focal, tonic-clonic, and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome seizures. | Reduces suicide risk in psychiatric conditions. |
| Can be used alone or with other drugs. | Administered orally for psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia. |
