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Lamotrigine |
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What is Lamotrigine and why is it prescribed? Lamotrigine is prescribed to control partial seizures in people with epilepsy. Lamotrigine is used in combination with other antiepileptic medications or as a replacement for a medication such as Tegretol, Dilantin, phenobarbital, or Mysoline. You may develop a rash during the first 2 to 8 weeks of Lamotrigine therapy, particularly if you are also taking Depakene. If this happens, notify your doctor immediately. The rash could become severe and even dangerous, particularly in children. A slight possibility of this problem remains for up to 6 months. How should you take Lamotrigine? Follow your doctors directions for taking Lamotrigine. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase your risk of developing a serious rash. Do not stop taking Lamotrigine without first discussing it with your doctor. An abrupt halt could increase your seizures. Your doctor can schedule a gradual reduction in dosage. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Lamotrigine in a tightly closed container at room temperature. Keep it dry and protect it from light. Are there any Lamotrigine side effects? Lamotrigine side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Lamotrigine side effects may include blurred vision, dizziness, double vision, headache, nausea, rash, sleepiness, uncoordinated movements, and vomiting. Less common Lamotrigine side effects may include abdominal pain, accidental injury, anxiety, constipation, depression, diarrhea, fever, "flu-like" symptoms, increased cough, inflammation of vagina, irritability, painful menstruation, sore throat, and tremor. Rare Lamotrigine side effects may include absence of menstrual periods, chills, confusion, dry mouth, ear pain, emotional changes, heart palpitations, hot flashes, joint disorders, memory decrease, mind racing, muscle weakness, muscle spasm, poor concentration, ringing in ears, sleep disorder, and speech disorder. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Lamotrigine? If Lamotrigine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Lamotrigine is often combined with other medications used to treat epilepsy, including the following: Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Phenobarbital (Donnatal, Quadrinal, others), Phenytoin (Dilantin), Primidone (Mysoline), and Valproic acid (Depakene). Be sure to check with your doctor before combining any other drugs with your seizure medications. Lamotrigine, in particular, may inhibit the action of sulfa drugs such as Bactrim, Proloprim, and Septra. Are there any special warnings about Lamotrigine? Lamictal may cause some people to become drowsy, dizzy, or less alert. Remember to be alert for development of any type of rash, especially during the first 2 to 8 weeks of treatment. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medical problems you have before starting therapy with Lamotrigine. If you have kidney or liver disease, or heart problems, Lamotrigine should be used with caution. Lamotrigine may cause vision problems. If any develop, notify your doctor immediately. Also be quick to call your doctor if you develop a fever or have any other signs of an allergic reaction. Notify your doctor, too, if your seizures get worse. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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