How does Lamictal work to prevent seizures. What are the proper dosing and storage instructions for Lamictal. How does the body metabolize Lamictal. What factors affect Lamictal’s effectiveness.

Understanding Lamictal: A Comprehensive Guide to Lamotrigine

Lamictal, also known by its generic name lamotrigine, is a widely prescribed medication for managing epilepsy and seizures. This advanced anticonvulsant has proven effective in controlling various types of seizures, making it a valuable tool in the treatment of epilepsy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of Lamictal, its mechanism of action, proper usage, and important considerations for patients and healthcare providers.

The Science Behind Lamictal’s Seizure Prevention

How does Lamictal work to prevent seizures? Lamictal operates by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. During a seizure, brain cells fire at an abnormally rapid rate. Lamictal helps to prevent this excessive firing by modulating sodium channels and inhibiting the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. This action effectively stops seizures in their tracks, often before they can fully develop.

The medication’s ability to regulate brain cell activity makes it particularly useful for various types of epilepsy, including partial seizures and generalized seizures. Its effectiveness in treating Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of childhood epilepsy, has also been well-documented.

Lamictal’s Impact on Neurotransmitters

While the primary mechanism of Lamictal involves sodium channel modulation, research suggests it may also affect other neurotransmitter systems. Some studies indicate that Lamictal might influence glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, further contributing to its anticonvulsant properties.

Proper Dosing and Administration of Lamictal

What is the correct way to take Lamictal? The administration of Lamictal requires careful attention to dosage and form. It’s available in several formulations, including regular tablets, chewable dispersible tablets, and extended-release tablets. Here are some key points to remember:

• Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
• Regular tablets should be swallowed whole with water.
• Chewable dispersible tablets can be swallowed, chewed, or mixed with liquid.
• Maintain consistency in taking Lamictal with or without food.
• Be aware of tablet strength changes during dose adjustments.

If you’re using chewable dispersible tablets and choose to mix them with liquid, use a small amount of water or diluted fruit juice. Allow the tablet to disintegrate for about a minute, stir gently, and consume the entire mixture immediately.

Dealing with Missed Doses

What should you do if you forget to take a dose of Lamictal? If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

To minimize the risk of missed doses, consider using a pill organizer or setting reminders on your phone. Consistency in medication intake is crucial for maintaining effective seizure control.

Lamictal Storage and Handling

Proper storage of Lamictal is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Keep the medication at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture. Avoid storing it in bathrooms or other damp areas. Always keep Lamictal and all medications out of reach of children.

When disposing of unused or expired Lamictal, follow proper medication disposal guidelines. Many communities offer drug take-back programs, which are the safest way to dispose of unused medications.

Metabolism and Interactions of Lamictal

How does the body process Lamictal? Lamictal is primarily metabolized in the liver through glucuronidation. This process can be affected by various factors, including liver function and concurrent medications. Patients with liver disease should use Lamictal cautiously and under close medical supervision.

The metabolism of Lamictal can be significantly influenced by other medications, particularly other antiepileptic drugs. For example:

• Valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote) can slow down Lamictal metabolism, requiring lower doses.
• Enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs like carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), and phenobarbital can accelerate Lamictal metabolism, necessitating higher doses.

These interactions underscore the importance of informing your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking.

Lamictal and Hormonal Contraceptives

Women taking hormonal contraceptives should be aware that these can affect Lamictal levels in the body. Estrogen-containing contraceptives may lower Lamictal concentrations, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Conversely, discontinuing hormonal contraceptives while on Lamictal can lead to increased drug levels and potential side effects. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary in these situations.

Efficacy and Therapeutic Range of Lamictal

How effective is Lamictal in managing seizures? Lamictal has demonstrated significant efficacy in controlling various types of seizures, both as monotherapy and as an adjunctive treatment. Its effectiveness has been particularly notable in:

• Partial seizures
• Generalized tonic-clonic seizures
• Absence seizures
• Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

The therapeutic range for Lamictal can vary depending on the individual and the type of epilepsy being treated. Generally, serum concentrations between 2.5-15 µg/mL are considered therapeutic, but some patients may require higher or lower levels for optimal seizure control.

Factors Affecting Lamictal’s Effectiveness

Several factors can influence how well Lamictal works for an individual:

1. Type and severity of epilepsy
2. Concurrent medications
3. Liver function
4. Age and gender
5. Adherence to prescribed regimen

Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor the medication’s effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

While Lamictal is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Double vision
• Nausea
• Skin rash

Most side effects are mild and tend to diminish over time. However, some side effects require immediate medical attention. A serious skin rash, known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, is a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect of Lamictal. This risk is higher during the first 8 weeks of treatment and when starting at high doses.

Lamictal and Pregnancy

The use of Lamictal during pregnancy requires careful consideration. While the risk of birth defects appears to be lower compared to some other antiepileptic drugs, it’s not zero. Women of childbearing age should discuss family planning with their healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits of continuing Lamictal during pregnancy.

Lamictal Beyond Epilepsy: Other Therapeutic Uses

While primarily known for its antiepileptic properties, Lamictal has found applications in other areas of medicine. What are some other conditions that Lamictal may help treat? The medication has shown promise in:

• Bipolar disorder: Lamictal is FDA-approved for maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder.
• Neuropathic pain: Some studies suggest potential benefits in managing certain types of nerve pain.
• Migraine prevention: Although not FDA-approved for this use, some patients report reduced frequency of migraines with Lamictal.

These off-label uses highlight the versatility of Lamictal’s mechanism of action and its potential to address various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Lamictal in Mood Stabilization

In bipolar disorder, Lamictal appears to be particularly effective in preventing depressive episodes. Its mood-stabilizing properties are thought to be related to its effects on glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. This dual action on seizure control and mood stabilization makes Lamictal a unique option for patients with both epilepsy and bipolar disorder.

Patient Education and Empowerment

Educating patients about Lamictal is crucial for ensuring safe and effective use of the medication. What should patients know to maximize the benefits of Lamictal therapy? Key points include:

• Understanding the importance of consistent dosing
• Recognizing potential side effects and when to seek medical attention
• Being aware of potential drug interactions
• Knowing how to properly store and handle the medication
• Understanding the need for regular follow-ups and blood tests

Empowering patients with this knowledge can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.

Support Resources for Lamictal Users

Various resources are available to support patients taking Lamictal:

• Epilepsy Foundation: Offers comprehensive information and support for people with epilepsy
• Patient support groups: Provide a platform for sharing experiences and coping strategies
• Medication tracking apps: Help maintain adherence to dosing schedules
• Pharmacist consultations: Offer guidance on proper use and potential interactions

Utilizing these resources can enhance the overall management of epilepsy and improve the patient’s experience with Lamictal therapy.

Future Directions in Lamictal Research

As our understanding of epilepsy and neurological disorders evolves, so does the research surrounding Lamictal. What potential advancements might we see in Lamictal therapy? Current areas of investigation include:

• Development of extended-release formulations for improved convenience
• Exploration of Lamictal’s potential in treating other neurological conditions
• Research into personalized dosing strategies based on genetic factors
• Studies on long-term effects and safety profiles

These ongoing research efforts aim to optimize the use of Lamictal and potentially expand its therapeutic applications.

Lamictal and Precision Medicine

The field of pharmacogenomics is shedding light on how genetic variations can affect an individual’s response to Lamictal. This research may lead to more tailored treatment approaches, allowing healthcare providers to predict which patients are most likely to benefit from Lamictal and who might be at higher risk for side effects.

As we continue to unravel the complexities of the brain and nervous system, medications like Lamictal play a crucial role in improving the lives of those affected by epilepsy and related disorders. The ongoing research and development in this field promise to bring even more effective and personalized treatment options in the future.

Lamotrigine Advanced Seizure Medication | Epilepsy Foundation

How to take and store [node:title]?

Follow the doctor’s directions. Call if you have any questions. Ask the doctor what to do if you forget a dose. The way the medicine is taken depends, of course, on what form the doctor has prescribed.

Swallow regular Lamictal tablets whole. Chewing them may leave a bitter taste. All the tablets of this type are shaped like a shield and marked with the name “LAMICTAL” and the number of milligrams in the dose.

If you have chewable dispersible tablets, you can swallow them whole, chew them, or mix them in a liquid like water or diluted fruit juice. If you chew these tablets, you probably will want to drink a little water or diluted juice to help you swallow. To mix them in a liquid, add the tablets to a small amount of the water or juice (1 teaspoon, or enough to cover the tablets) in a glass or spoon. Wait about 1 minute, until the tablets have completely broken up. Then carefully stir the liquid and drink it all immediately.

It’s OK to take Lamictal either with food or without food, but it’s best to be consistent from day to day. People who usually take Lamictal with food should try to do that all the time, because it affects the way the medicine is used by the body.

As the doctor increases the amount of Lamictal that you take, you may be given a different kind of tablet than the ones you’ve been taking. For example, if you’ve been taking 100-mg tablets and the new prescription is for 150-mg tablets, be careful to take the correct number. Don’t automatically continue to take the same number of pills as before.

Take only the number of tablets that your doctor tells you to take. If you think you’ve taken one or two extra tablets, call the doctor for advice. For a larger overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency room right away.

Store Lamictal tablets at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Don’t keep them in the bathroom if it’s damp there. And of course keep them where children can’t get at them.

What if I forget?

In general, if you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, delay that dose for a few hours, instead of taking two doses very close together. Then go back to the regular schedule. If you usually take Lamictal only once day, it might be a good idea to wait about 12 hours before taking the next dose. Then you can go back to a 24-hour schedule the next day. If you’re not sure about what to do, call the doctor’s office for more advice.

If you forget doses often, it may be a good idea to get a special pillbox or watch with an alarm to remind you.

Taking the right amount of seizure medicine on time every single day is the most important step in preventing seizures!

How does [node:title] affect the brain?

Brain cells need to work (fire) at a certain rate to function normally. During a seizure, brain cells are forced to work much more rapidly than normal. Lamictal helps prevent brain cells from working as fast as a seizure requires them to. In this way, seizures can be stopped when they are just beginning.

How does the body digest [node:title]?

After medicine is swallowed, it must be absorbed into the blood so it can move throughout the body. The process of absorbing, digesting, and excreting a medicine or food is called metabolism. The way the body metabolizes a particular medicine affects how often it must be taken. It also determines whether it will interact with other medicines or be affected by conditions such as liver disease.

Like many other medicines, Lamictal is broken down (digested) in the liver. People with liver disease must be cautious about taking it. But even if your liver is fine, things can get complicated if you also take other medicines that are digested in the liver. How well each medicine works and how quickly it leaves the body may be changed.

All types of Lamictal tablets are quickly and completely absorbed. The rate at which Lamictal is digested can vary a great deal, however, depending on whether other seizure medicines are also taken:

• People who also take Depakote or other medicines of that type need to take much less Lamictal because their bodies process it more slowly than usual.
• People who take some other seizure medicines need larger doses of Lamictal because their bodies process it quickly. Medicines with this effect include:
  • Tegretol, Carbatrol (carbamazepine)
  • Dilantin, Phenytek (phenytoin)
  • phenobarbital
  • Mysoline (primidone)

This is why the doctor needs to know about everything you take—not just prescription medicines but even things like vitamins, herbs, and aspirin! These things can affect how much Lamictal is prescribed.

How well does the [node:title] work?

Lamictal (lamotrigine) is approved by government agencies in most countries to be used as an add-on medicine for adults whose partial seizures are not well controlled by another seizure medicine. Doctors have studied groups of people who have used Lamictal in this way, comparing them with other patients who were given pills with no medicine in them (called a placebo). The doctors counted how many people had their seizures reduced by at least half. They found that 16% to 20% more people who took Lamictal met that standard than ones who took the placebo. The people who took Lamictal had more trouble with side effects, but the side effects were generally minor and often went away without stopping the medicine.

Lamictal is used to treat several different types of seizures. In one study, Lamictal was given as an add-on medicine for patients with the pattern of seizures called Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Compared to patients who were given a placebo, 23% more patients who took Lamictal had the number of their tonic-clonic seizures cut at least in half. Many of the other patients who took the Lamictal had little improvement, however.

No single combination of seizure medicines is perfect for everyone. Sometimes a series of combinations must be tried before finding what is best for the individual. Many other seizure medicines affect the way the body uses Lamictal, so the amount of each medicine that the person takes may need to be adjusted.

Some other studies have compared Lamictal with other seizure medicines when they are used alone, to see which medicine is best for people who have just begun treatment for epilepsy. On average, the results were about the same for Lamictal as for some other seizure medicines that are often used, but the patients in these studies who took Lamictal had fewer problems with side effects.

What are the most common side effects of [node:title]?

Most people who take Lamictal don’t have too much trouble with side effects. The most common complaints include:

• dizziness
• upset stomach
• headache
• unsteadiness
• double vision
• rash

Most of these problems are mild to moderate.

If you notice any of these problems, call the doctor. Sometimes the doctor can help by changing the amount of Lamictal taken or how you take it. No one should stop taking Lamictal or change the amount they take without a doctor’s advice.

On the positive side, fewer people say they feel tired when they take Lamictal than with most other seizure medicines. In fact, for many people it’s slightly stimulating. This is often a welcome side effect unless it keeps them awake at night.

People who have just started taking Lamictal (or who have just started taking a larger amount) should be careful during activities that might be dangerous, until they know whether they are having any side effects.

Allergic reactions
About 10% of people who take Lamictal experience a rash. Almost none of these rashes are serious. They most often occur in the first 6 weeks of treatment, so during this time, try to be aware of any skin problems and tell the doctor or nurse right away if you see a red rash, to be sure that it’s not the beginning of a serious problem. It’s often necessary to switch to a different seizure medicine.

Long-term side effects 
So far, we don’t know about any long-term side effects of Lamictal.

What are the most serious side effects of [node:title]?

Only a tiny number of people who take Lamictal have dangerous reactions to it. Most have no side effects, or perhaps mild ones that go away by themselves or can be easily treated.

It’s important to recognize the most serious side effects, however. Here’s a list of warning signs that may be the start of a serious problem. If you notice any of these signs, call your doctor right away:

• Rash or hives
• Fever and swollen lymph glands
• Painful sores in the mouth or around the eyes
• Swelling of lips or tongue

A serious rash while taking Lamictal has been reported in about 3 in 1000 adults and 1 in 100 children. Be sure to follow the doctor’s instructions about how much Lamictal to take, because starting with a low dose and increasing it gradually will reduce the risk of these reactions. If you see a rash, talk to the doctor about whether to stop taking Lamictal. Do not stop taking Lamictal or any other seizure medicine unless your doctor says so.

Rash and Serious Immune System Reaction: On April 25, 2018, the FDA issued a warning that lamotrigine could cause a rare but serious reaction that affects the body’s immune system. The immune system normally helps the body fight infections. The use of lamictal may rarely cause severe inflammation of the body. This could lead to hospitalization and death if it is not diagnosed and treated quickly. 

• The immune system reaction is called hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis or HLH.
• It usually starts with a fever over 101F and can cause severe problems with blood cells or other body organs (such as liver, kidney, and lungs).
• HLH may happen within days to weeks of starting treatment with Lamictal (lamotrigine). 
• If symptoms occur, a person should seek medical attention immediately and call their health care provider.  
• Diagnosing this condition can be complicated by other rashes or fevers that are seen with medicines or other health problems.
• A physical exam, specific blood tests and other tests are used to diagnose HLH. 

Other symptoms of HLH may include: fever, enlarged liver, swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bleeding, and problems affecting the nervous system. 

Note:

• This reaction is rare and not all rashes that happen with lamotrigine are serious problems. 
• Do not stop taking lamotrigine suddenly without talking to your health care provider. Stopping seizure medications quickly can lead to uncontrolled seizures. Since lamotrigine is also used for the treatment of bipolar disorder, new or worsening mental health problems could be seen if it is stopped quickly. 

Suicidal Thoughts: On July 10, 2008, an advisory panel was convened by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to review data that the FDA had previously collected from drug studies showing an association between many of the antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and suicidal ideation and behavior, which together are called suicidality. According to the FDA’s Alert, among the patients with epilepsy in these drug studies, 1 out of 1000 people taking the placebo (inactive substance) showed suicidality compared to approximately 3.5 out of 1000 people who took an AED. The FDA advisory panel voted to accept the FDA’s data at its meeting on July 10.

• Taking antiepileptic medicines may increase the risk of having suicidal thoughts or actions;
• Do not make any changes to the medication regimen without first talking with the responsible healthcare professional;
• Pay close attention to any day-to-day changes in mood, behavior and actions. These changes can happen very quickly so it is important to be mindful of any sudden differences.
• Be aware of common warning signs that might be a signal for risk of suicide. Some of these are:
  • Talking or thinking about wanting to hurt yourself or end your life
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Becoming depressed or having your depression get worse
  • Becoming preoccupied with death and dying
  • Giving away prized possessions

We again urge patients and families to contact their doctor before stopping an epilepsy medication because this may possibly lead to seizures and worsening of mood.

What else is [node:title] used for?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Lamictal as an additional treatment for bipolar disorder, a mental illness.

It is also legal to prescribe medicines for “off-label uses” even though the FDA has not formally approved such use. Lamictal is sometimes prescribed “off-label” for certain types of pain.

Who should not take [node:title]?

The only people who definitely should not take Lamictal (lamotrigine) are those who are allergic to it.

People with liver disease and those who must take certain other types of medicines may need to be more cautious than others about taking Lamictal. Most of them can take it successfully, however, if they work with the doctor to determine the correct amount to take. That is why it is so important to make sure the doctor knows about any liver disease and about every kind of medicine in use.

Can [node:title] be taken with other medicines?

Sometimes one kind of medicine changes the way another kind of medicine works in the body. This is true not only for prescription medicines, but also for medicines you just pick up off the shelf at the store. It’s also true for herbal products, vitamins, a few kinds of food—sometimes even cigarettes!

Any time a doctor suggests a new prescription, be sure to talk about what other medicines you are already using. If two kinds of medicine affect each other, the doctor may want to prescribe something else or change the amount to be taken.

How does Lamictal affect other medicines?
Lamictal has no effect on other seizure medicines. And unlike some other seizure medicines, it does not reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.

How does birth control affect Lamictal?
Although Lamictal does not reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, there is a possiblity that birth control pills can lower the amount of lamotrigine levels in your blood, thus increasing the likelihood of unexpected seizures. If you start or stop taking an oral contraceptive, and are currently taking Lamictal (lamotrigine)–please notify your doctor

How do other seizure medicines affect Lamictal?
Some other seizure medicines do affect the level of Lamictal in the body, either raising it or lowering it. Many of these interactions vary from person to person, however. Some may even vary from time to time for the same person. Make sure that your doctor is aware of all the seizure medicines you’re using.

One common seizure medicine, Depakote (and others closely related to it), will make the level of Lamictal in the body much higher. People who take both Depakote and Lamictal need to take smaller amounts of Lamictal.

On the other hand, some other seizure medicines reduce the amount of Lamictal in the body, so more must be taken. (This is not true if Depakote is also being used.) The seizure medicines with this effect are:

• Tegretol or Carbatrol (carbamazepine)
• Dilantin or Phenytek (phenytoin)
• phenobarbital
• Mysoline (primidone)

What are the effects of [node:title] on Children?

The FDA has approved Lamictal for some seizures in children as young as 2 years of age. Research suggests that it is effective for many seizure types, including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

Many children take Depakote or other valproate medicines (Depakene, valproic acid). These medicines make Lamictal stay in the body much longer. To keep from having too much Lamictal in their body (which would probably cause unwanted side effects), these children must take very small doses of it. Other children may take up to 5 times as much!

Doctors figure out how much medicine to give to young children based mostly on their weight. Children ages 2 to 12 who are also taking Depakote will probably end up taking 1 to 5 milligrams (mg) per day of Lamictal for every kilogram (kg, about 2.2 pounds) of their body weight. For example, a 55-pound child taking 3 mg per kg would be given 75 mg per day. (Of course, they will start by taking much less.) Children who don’t take Depakote generally take between 5 and 15 mg per kg per day. The pills are usually given twice a day.

The amount of Lamictal taken by children over 12 is more like the adult dose, which also depends on whether the person is taking Depakote.

If a woman takes [node:title] during pregnancy will it hurt the baby?

Recently, the North American AED Pregnancy Registry, located at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, found that infants who are exposed to lamotrigine as monotherapy during pregnancy (lamotrigine was used as the only AED by the mother) have a much higher risk of having an oral cleft problem, than infants born to women in a comparison group and who were not exposed to lamotrigine during pregnancy. Oral cleft problems are birth defects that may involve the lip (cleft lip), the palate (cleft palate), or both. During pregnancy, the normal openings between the upper lip and the nose (seen with cleft lip) or between the roof or back of the mouth and the nose (seen in cleft palate) may not close properly. These problems can often be seen with ultrasound testing and can usually be corrected after birth with surgery.

In this study, of 564 women who received lamotrigine alone, 5 instances of isolated cleft lip or palate (not seen as part of any specific syndrome) were seen in the babies. This data gives a prevalence rate of 8.9 per 1000, which means that oral cleft problems may occur in 8.9 of 1000 women treated with lamotrigine monotherapy. This number is 24 times higher than the risk of oral cleft problems seen in babies from the comparison group used in the study.

This information should be interpreted with caution and further analysis is underway. Women taking lamotrigine should talk to their doctors if they become pregnant or are considering pregnancy, and discuss the risks and benefits of taking lamotrigine during pregnancy. The manufacturer of Lamictal, the brand name version of lamotrigine, has stated that “Lamictal should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus”.

Women who are interested in participating in pregnancy registries , may enroll themselves in the North American AED Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334.

Taking medications during pregnancy is often a concern for women who are pregnant. Most medications carry some risk, but the extent of risk is often unknown. The risks of antiepileptic drugs to babies born to women taking AEDs during pregnancy  is a source of ongoing research around the world.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) assigns each medication to a Pregnancy Category according to whether it has been proven to be harmful in pregnancy. Lamictal is listed in Pregnancy Category C. This indicates that caution is advised, but the benefits of the medicine may outweigh the potential risks. Studies in animals have shown some harm to the baby, but there haven’t been any good studies of results in women. There is no indication yet that Lamictal causes serious birth defects.

The risk of birth defects is higher for women who take more than one seizure medicine and for women with a family history of birth defects.

All women who are capable of becoming pregnant should take at least 0.4 mg (400 mcg) of the vitamin called folic acid every day because it helps to prevent one type of birth defect. (The most well-known of these is spina bifida, in which the spinal cord is not completely enclosed.) Women at high risk, such as those with a history of this kind of defect in a previous pregnancy, should take 4000 mcg (4 mg) daily, beginning before they become pregnant.

About 20% to 35% of women have seizures more often during pregnancy because of changes in hormones or changes in how their seizure medicine is handled by the body. This appears to be particularly true for Lamictal. It is helpful for the doctor to check the levels of medicine in the blood regularly during pregnancy so that the dosage can be adjusted if necessary.

Talk to the doctor if about your options if you’re interested in breast-feeding the baby. The baby will get some Lamictal through the milk, and its possible effects are unknown. For this reason, breast-feeding while taking Lamictal is not recommended.

What are the effects of [node:title] on Seniors

Lamictal is commonly prescribed for epilepsy in people over 65. It’s important for the doctor to prescribe a very low dose at the beginning and increase it more slowly than for a younger person.

Seniors tend to be more sensitive than younger adults to medicines and their side effects, and may have more trouble as a result. For instance, even before they start taking Lamictal, some seniors have problems with unsteadiness or dizziness. These are common side effects of this medicine. If the Lamictal makes them worse, the person could be in real danger from falls or other accidents.

Starting at a very low dose of Lamictal and being very cautious about any increases should help to control side effects. It’s especially important for seniors to keep the doctor informed about any changes that they notice.

What are the dose ranges for [node:title]?

The best amount is the amount that completely controls seizures without causing troublesome side effects. It depends on many factors, which are different for every individual. Follow the doctor’s directions. Call if you have any questions.

No one should stop taking Lamictal or change the amount they take without talking to the doctor first. Stopping any seizure medicine all at once can cause a problem that may be life-threatening.

Don’t use more than the doctor prescribes. If a little extra (such as one or two extra tablets) is taken by accident, call the doctor for advice. For a larger overdose, call a poison control center or emergency room right away unless you have other specific directions from your doctor.

To avoid unwanted side effects, the doctor will prescribe a low dose to start and increase it gradually until seizures are controlled. The amount the doctor will prescribe will depend on what other seizure medicines are taken. Most people need to take Lamictal twice a day, but some need to take it only once a day.

Read the package insert of [node:title]

In the United States, companies that manufacture medicines are required to publish certain kinds of information about each product. This document is commonly known as a “package insert” because it is usually included with each package of the medicine.

You can also read these documents (also called “prescribing information”) online. The U.S. package insert for Lamictal (lamotrigine) is found at:

Some of the information may differ in other countries.

To learn how to read and understand a package insert, see How to read a package insert.

Read About [node:title] studies

Primary Generalized Epilepsy

FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA warns of serious immune system reaction with seizure and mental health medicine lamotrigine (Lamictal)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning that the medicine lamotrigine (Lamictal) for seizures and bipolar disorder can cause a rare but very serious reaction that excessively activates the body’s infection-fighting immune system. This can cause severe inflammation throughout the body and lead to hospitalization and death, especially if the reaction is not diagnosed and treated quickly. As a result, we are requiring a new warning about this risk be added to the prescribing information in the lamotrigine drug labels.*

The immune system reaction, called hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), causes an uncontrolled response by the immune system. HLH typically presents as a persistent fever, usually greater than 101°F, and it can lead to severe problems with blood cells and organs throughout the body such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Lamotrigine is used alone or with other medicines to treat seizures in patients two years and older. It may also be used as maintenance treatment in patients with bipolar disorder to help delay the occurrence of mood episodes such as depression, mania, or hypomania. Stopping lamotrigine without first talking to a prescriber can lead to uncontrolled seizures, or new or worsening mental health problems. Lamotrigine has been approved and on the market for 24 years, and is available under the brand name Lamictal and as generics.

Health care professionals should be aware that prompt recognition and early treatment is important for improving HLH outcomes and decreasing mortality. Diagnosis is often complicated because early signs and symptoms such as fever and rash are not specific. HLH may also be confused with other serious immune-related adverse reactions such as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). Evaluate patients who develop fever or rash promptly, and discontinue lamotrigine if HLH or another serious immune-related adverse reaction is suspected and an alternative etiology for the signs and symptoms cannot be established. Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of HLH during lamotrigine treatment. A diagnosis of HLH can be established if a patient has at least five of the following eight signs or symptoms:

• Fever and rash
• Enlarged spleen
• Cytopenias
• Elevated levels of triglycerides or low blood levels of fibrinogen
• High levels of blood ferritin
• Hemophagocytosis identified through bone marrow, spleen, or lymph node biopsy
• Decreased or absent Natural Killer (NK) Cell activity
• Elevated blood levels of CD25 showing prolonged immune cell activation

 

Patients or their caregivers should contact their health care professionals right away if they experience any symptom of HLH while taking lamotrigine. HLH can occur within days to weeks after starting treatment. A physical examination and specific laboratory blood tests and other evaluations are used to diagnose HLH. Signs and symptoms of HLH include but are not limited to:

• Fever
• Enlarged liver; symptoms may include pain, tenderness, or unusual swelling over the liver area in the upper right belly
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Skin rashes
• Yellow skin or eyes
• Unusual bleeding
• Nervous system problems, including seizures, trouble walking, difficulty seeing, or other visual disturbances

 

Read the patient Medication Guide, which explains the benefits and risks of lamotrigine, every time you get a new prescription because the information may change. Do not stop taking lamotrigine without talking to your health care professional first as doing so can cause serious problems.

In the 24 years since lamotrigine’s 1994 approval, FDA identified eight cases worldwide of confirmed or suspected HLH associated with the medicine in children and adults (see Data Summary). This number includes only reports submitted to FDA± and found in the medical literature, so there are likely additional cases about which we are unaware. We determined there was reasonable evidence that lamotrigine was the cause of HLH in these eight cases based on the timing of events and the order in which they occurred. The patients in these cases required hospitalization and received drug and other medical treatments, with one dying.

We previously communicated safety information associated with lamotrigine in September 2006 (possible association between Lamictal exposure during pregnancy and oral clefts in newborns) and August 2010 (aseptic meningitis warning). Lamotrigine was also covered as part of a May 2009 safety alert concerning suicidal thoughts and behavior with the entire class of anti-seizure medicines.

We urge health care professionals and patients to report side effects involving lamotrigine (Lamictal) and other medicines to the FDA MedWatch program, using the information in the “Contact FDA” box at the bottom of the page.

*For additional drug label information, search Drugs@FDA: FDA Approved Drug Products.
±The cases were reported to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

About Us

• Terms of use

Medicine.net

• Overview
• Benefits
• Side effects
• Precautions
• Interactions
• Contraindications

Overview

Lamictal Tablet is used for Partial seizures, Generalized tonic-clonic seizures, Bipolar disorder, Lennox-gasteau syndrome and other conditions.

Lamictal Tablet contains Lamotrigine as an active ingredient. Available in tablet form.

Detailed information regarding the use, composition, dosage, side effects of Lamictal Tablet, as well as user reviews are provided below:

Uses

Lamictal Tablet is used for the treatment, control, prevention, & improvement of the following diseases, conditions and symptoms:

Learn More: Benefits of

Side Effects of

The following is a list of possible side-effects that may occur from all constituents of Lamictal Tablet. This list is not final. These side effects have been recorded previously, but are not always recorded when using the drug. Some of these side effects may be extremely rare, but have incredibly severe consequences. If you notice any side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Especially in the case of observing side effects for a long time.

• Irritability
• Aggression
• Nausea
• Rash
• Join the pain
• Vomiting
• Tremor

900 06 Insomnia

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Agitation
• Dry mouth
• Back pain
• Headache

If you experience side effects not listed above, contact your healthcare provider for advice. In addition, you can report side effects to your local Food and Drug Administration.

Precautions

Before starting this drug, tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, dietary supplements (such as vitamins, natural supplements, etc. ), allergies, existing medical conditions, and current health conditions (such as pregnancy, upcoming surgery, and etc.). The side effects of the drug may be more pronounced depending on the state of your body. Take this medicine as directed by your doctor, or follow the directions for use that come with your medicine. The dosage of the drug depends on your condition. Tell your doctor if there is no change or if your condition worsens. Important points to discuss with your healthcare provider are listed below.

• Have or a history of rash or meningitis, suicidal ideation, seizure frequency increases or worsens, allergic reactions, life-threatening skin reactions, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, extensive skin peeling, mouth, throat or genital ulcers, mouth pain, red or swollen eyes, high fever, flu-like symptoms, drowsiness, swelling around the face, swollen glands in the neck, unexpected bleeding or bruising, sore throat, elevated liver enzymes, increased white blood cells, decreased red blood cells, or enlarged lymph
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery

If you use other drugs or over the counter products at the same time, the effects of Lamictal Tablet may change. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you use. Your doctor will be able to make the right plan for taking the drug, which will avoid negative interactions. Lamictal Tablet may interact with the following drugs and products:

• Carbamazepine
• Fosphenytoin
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Primidone
• Sodium valproate

90 132

Hypersensitivity to Lamictal Tablet is a contraindication. In addition, Lamictal Tablet should not be used if you have the following conditions:

• Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents
• Breastfeeding
• Children under 16
• Liver failure
• Parkinson’s disease
• hypersensitivity
• kidney problems

Composition and active ingredients

Lamictal tablet The label / Lamictal Tablet is composed of the following active ingredients (salts)

• Lamotrigine

Please note that this preparation is available in different strengths for each of the active ingredients listed above.

Packing options and drug strengths

For this information, please consult your physician, pharmacist or see the information on the product packaging.

FAQ

• Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery while using this product?

  If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, hypotension or a headache as side-effects when using Lamictal Tablet medicine then it may not be safe to drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery. You should stop driving if taking this medicine makes you drowsy, dizzy, or hypotensive. Doctors recommend that you stop drinking alcohol with such drugs, because. alcohol greatly increases the side effects and drowsiness. Please check for these effects on your body when using Lamictal Tablet. Be sure to consult your doctor for advice based on the characteristics of your body and general health.

• Is this drug (product) addictive or addictive?

  Most drugs are not habit-forming or addictive. In most cases, the state classifies drugs that can be addictive as controlled dispensing drugs. For example, schedule H or X in India and schedule II-V in the USA. Please check the information on the drug packaging to make sure that this drug is not in the controlled category. Also, do not self-medicate or accustom your body to medications without consulting your doctor.

• Can I stop using this product immediately or do I need to slowly stop using it?

  Some medications need to be stopped gradually due to a rebound effect. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider for advice based on your body, general health, and other medications you may be taking.

Cite this page 9

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Lamictal Tablet

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• Lamictal Tablet – Product – Medicine.net. (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2023, from https://www.Medication.net/uk-ru/lamictal-tablet

MLA Style Citation

• . com . N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Apr. 2023.

Chicago Style Citation

• “Lamictal Tablet in Russian – Product – Medicine.net” Tabletwise. Accessed April 21, 2023. https://www.drug.net/uk-ru/lamictal-tablet. What are the uses of Lamictal Tablet?
• What are the side effects of Lamictal Tablet?
• What other medicines does Lamictal Tablet interact with?
• When should you not use Lamictal Tablet?
• What precautions should you take while using Lamictal Tablet?

Last update date

This page was updated on 9/28/2020.

This page provides information for Lamictal Tablet Product in English .

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Lamictal vs. Latuda: differences and side effects

Lamictal

• Are Latuda and Lamictal the same thing?
• What are the possible side effects of Lamictal?
• What are the possible side effects of latuda?
• What is Lamictal?
• What is Latuda?
• What drugs interact with Lamictal?
• What drugs interact with latuda?
• How should I take Lamictal?
• How should I take Latuda?

Are Lamictal and Latuda the same thing?

Lamictal (lamotrigine) and Latuda (lurasidone hydrochloride) are used to treat bipolar depression.

Lamictal is also used alone or in combination with other anticonvulsants to treat certain types of seizures.

Latuda is also used to treat schizophrenia.

Lamictal and Latuda belong to different drug classes. Lamictal is an anticonvulsant and Latuda is an atypical antipsychotic.

What are the possible side effects of Lamictal?

Lamictal may cause serious side effects including:

Does pedialitis cause diarrhea in adults?

• dizziness,
• shaking (tremor),
• drowsiness,
• tired feeling, ,
• double vision,
• blurred vision,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• upset stomach,
• abdominal pain,
• dry mouth,
• menstrual changes,
• back pain,
• sore throat,
• runny nose, or
• trouble sleeping (insomnia).

Serious side effects of Lamictal that you should tell your doctor about include:

• rash,
• worsening depression or suicidal ideation, and
• flu-like symptoms such as body aches or swollen glands.

What are the possible side effects of latuda?

Side effects of Latuda in adults include:

• drowsiness,
• dizziness,
• nausea,
• diarrhea,
• abdominal pain,
• loss of appetite,
• shaking 900 08
• muscle stiffness,
• weight gain,
• mask-like facial expression,
• disability stay still,
• restlessness,
• excitement
• blurred vision,
• breast swelling or discharge,
• missed menses,
• decreased libido,
• impotence, or
• difficulty with orgasm.

What is Lamictal?

Lamictal (lamotrigine) is an anticonvulsant used alone or in combination with other anticonvulsants to treat certain types of seizures.

side effects of robaxin 750 mg

What is Latuda?

Latuda is a prescription drug used to treat:

• schizophrenia in people 13 years of age and older
• depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder alone or with lithium or valproate in adults

It is not known if lauda is safe and effective for people under 13 years of age.

What drugs interact with Lamictal?

Lamictal may interact with carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or rifampicin.

Lamictal may also interact with hormonal forms of contraception (tablets, injections, implants, or skin patches), divalproex, oxcarbazepine, or valproic acid.

What drugs interact with latuda?

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking lettuce, as these may affect the amount of latuda in the blood. Do not drive, operate machinery, or engage in other hazardous activities until you know how Latuda affects you. Latuda may cause drowsiness.

Latuda may interact with other medicines that cause drowsiness (such as cold or allergy medicines, narcotic pain medicines, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and medicines for seizures, depression, or anxiety), bosentan, conivaptan, dexamethasone, imatinib, isoniazid, St. John’s wort, antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, heart or blood pressure medicines, HIV/AIDS medicines, medicines to treat narcolepsy, or anticonvulsants.

How should I take Lamictal?

• Lamictal doses depend on the condition being treated and whether it is used alone or in combination with other anticonvulsants.

How should I take Latuda?

can melatonin and benadryl be taken?

Take Latuda exactly as directed.

• Take Latuda exactly as your doctor tells you to. Do not change the dose yourself.
• Take latuda by mouth with meals (at least 350 calories).
• If you take too much Latuda, call your doctor or poison control center right away at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Disclaimer

All drug information provided on RxList.com is obtained directly from drug monographs published by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Any drug information published on RxList.com regarding general drug information, drug side effects, drug use, dosage, etc. is from the original drug documentation contained in his FDA drug monograph.

The drug information contained in the drug comparisons published on RxList.com is primarily derived from the FDA drug information. The drug comparison information contained in this article does not contain data from human or animal clinical trials conducted by any of the drug manufacturers comparing drugs.

The drug comparison information provided does not cover all potential uses, warnings, drug interactions, side effects, adverse or allergic reactions. RxList.com is not responsible for the health care provided to a person based on the information posted on this site.

Because drug information can and will change at any time, RxList.