Lamictal (Lamotrigine) Detailed Information

The active ingredient in Lamictal is **Lamotrigine**. Inactive ingredients may include lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate, depending on the formulation.

Common side effects of Lamictal include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Skin rash (mild cases)

Less common but serious side effects include:

• Severe skin reactions such as **Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)**
• Severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing, hives)
• Suicidal thoughts or changes in mood
• Severe liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea)
• Coordination problems or uncontrolled body movements

If you experience severe side effects, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately.

Lamictal is usually taken **once or twice daily**, with or without food. Dosage adjustments are necessary based on the condition being treated:

• For **epilepsy**, the dosage is typically increased gradually to avoid severe skin reactions, starting at **25 mg daily** for the first 2 weeks and increasing as per doctor's recommendations.
• For **bipolar disorder**, the usual maintenance dose ranges from **100 mg to 400 mg daily**, depending on the patient's needs and response to treatment.

It is essential to follow the prescribed dosing schedule to prevent withdrawal effects or worsening of symptoms.

Lamictal may interact with other medications, including:

• Valproic acid (Depakote): Can increase Lamictal levels, requiring lower doses.
• Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital: Can decrease Lamictal effectiveness, requiring dosage adjustments.
• Hormonal birth control: May reduce Lamictal levels, making it less effective.
• Serotonergic antidepressants: Increased risk of mood-related side effects.
• Alcohol: May enhance dizziness and drowsiness effects.

Consult your doctor before combining Lamictal with other medications.

Lamictal does not provide immediate relief. It may take **several weeks** to build up in the system and show noticeable effects. For **seizure control**, effects may be seen after **a few weeks**, while for **bipolar disorder**, it can take up to **6 weeks** to achieve full benefits.

If you experience severe side effects, such as a widespread rash, severe mood changes, or symptoms of liver damage, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.