Lamotrigine
Also sold as: Lamictal, Lamitor
Prescription neededEpilepsy and nerve pain
Comes as:TabletDissolving tablet
Usual adult dose
The dose must be raised very slowly by the doctor (for example 25 mg a day for the first 2 weeks) to lower the risk of a serious rash. Usual long-term dose is 100 mg to 200 mg a day. The dose is different if you also take sodium valproate.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- headache
- dizziness
- double vision
- nausea
- trouble sleeping
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- any skin rash (stop and see a doctor at once)
- blisters or peeling skin
- fever with swollen glands
- thoughts of suicide
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Past rash with lamotrigine
- Taking sodium valproate (a lower dose is needed)
- Liver disease (use with caution)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious1 medicineDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Sodium valproate
Valproate doubles lamotrigine levels and raises the risk of serious rash.
Moderate2 medicinesTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Carbamazepine
Carbamazepine lowers lamotrigine levels.
- Ethinylestradiol + Levonorgestrel
The combined pill lowers lamotrigine levels; seizure control may worsen.