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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Lamotrigine extended-release (long-acting) tablets are employed in conjunction with other medications to address specific types of seizures in individuals diagnosed with epilepsy.
Lamotrigine belongs to a class of medications known as anticonvulsants, and its mechanism of action involves reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Uses and Dosage
Lamotrigine is available in various forms, including regular tablets, extended-release tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and chewable dispersible tablets. It should be taken orally, with or without food. Extended-release tablets are typically taken once daily, while regular tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and chewable dispersible tablets are usually taken once or twice a day, although initial treatment may involve taking them once every other day.
Given that there are medications with names similar to lamotrigine, ensure that you receive the correct medication each time you refill your prescription. Check the clarity of the prescription from your doctor, and confirm with your pharmacist that you are receiving lamotrigine. Upon receiving your medication, compare the tablets to the images in the manufacturer’s patient information sheet. If there’s any doubt, consult your pharmacist and do not take any medication unless you are certain it is the one prescribed by your doctor.
For tablets and extended-release tablets, swallow them whole without splitting, chewing, or crushing. If you are taking chewable dispersible tablets, you can swallow them whole, chew them, or dissolve them in liquid. If dissolved, do not attempt to divide a single tablet for more than one dose.
Orally disintegrating tablets should be placed on the tongue, moved around in the mouth until dissolved, and then swallowed with or without water.
Before taking the first dose from a blister pack, check for any torn, broken, or empty blisters, and do not use the medication if any issues are identified.
If transitioning from another seizure medication to lamotrigine, your doctor will gradually decrease the dose of the former and increase the dose of lamotrigine. Follow these instructions meticulously and seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.
While lamotrigine may manage your condition, it is not a cure. It may take several weeks to experience the full benefits.
Continue taking lamotrigine even if you feel well. Do not discontinue it without consulting your doctor, even if you encounter side effects like unusual changes in behavior or mood. Your doctor will likely reduce your dose gradually.
Abruptly stopping lamotrigine may lead to seizures. If you stop taking it for any reason, do not resume without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- Indigestion
- loss of strength
- menstrual pain
- pain
- trembling or shaking
- trouble with sleeping
- unusual weight loss
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blurred vision
- changes in vision
- chest pain, discomfort, or tightness
- clumsiness or unsteadiness
- decreased urine output
- dilated neck veins
- double vision
- irregular breathing
- irregular heartbeat
- nausea
- pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
- poor coordination
- seizure that will not stop
- skin rash
- sweating
- swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
- trouble breathing
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vomiting
- weight gain
Caution
- Before starting lamotrigine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, including allergies to lamotrigine or other substances in the product. Inactive ingredients in the medication could potentially trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart problems such as irregular heartbeat, heart block, or heart failure.
- This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The use of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely.
- Children may be at a higher risk of developing skin rashes while taking this drug, as indicated in the Warning section.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, particularly dizziness, loss of coordination, or fainting. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Lamictal XR is available in the following forms and strengths:
- lamotrigine XR extended-release tablet:
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
- 200 mg
FAQ
How soon can you feel the effects of Lamictal?
It can take up to 6 weeks for lamotrigine to work. You may still have seizures or feel low during this time.
Does Lamictal make you feel weird?
This medicine may cause some people to be agitated, irritable, or display other abnormal behaviors. It may also cause some people to have suicidal thoughts and tendencies or to become more depressed.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lamotrigine/about-lamotrigine/#:~:text=It%20can%20take%20up%20to,feel%20low%20during%20this%20time
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470442/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lamotrigine-oral-route/description/drg-20067449
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695007.html#:~:text=Lamotrigine%20extended%2Drelease%20(long%2D,in%20patients%20who%20have%20epilepsy
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152483/lamictal-xr-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lamictal-xr.html
