Lamictal DC (Lamotrigine)

Description

Indications

Lamotrigine is utilized either alone or in combination with other medications for the prevention and management of seizures. It is also used to mitigate the severe mood fluctuations in adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder. As an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug, lamotrigine works by restoring the natural balance of specific substances in the brain.

Uses and Dosage

Lamotrigine is available in various forms: as a tablet, an extended-release tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet, and a chewable dispersible tablet. It can be taken orally with or without food. Extended-release tablets are typically taken once a day, while regular tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and chewable dispersible tablets are usually taken once or twice daily, although initially, they may be taken every other day.

Given the similarity of names between lamotrigine and other medications, ensure that you receive lamotrigine specifically when you refill your prescription. Verify that your doctor’s prescription is clear and legible, and double-check with your pharmacist to ensure you are getting the correct medication. Upon receiving your medication, compare the tablets to the images provided in the manufacturer’s patient information sheet. If you suspect you’ve received the wrong medication, contact your pharmacist immediately. Refrain from taking any medication unless you’re certain it’s the one prescribed by your doctor.

For administration, swallow the tablets and extended-release tablets whole without splitting, chewing, or crushing them.

If taking chewable dispersible tablets, you can swallow them whole, chew them, or dissolve them in liquid. After chewing, follow up with a small amount of water or diluted fruit juice. To dissolve them in liquid, place a teaspoon of water or diluted fruit juice in a glass, add the tablet, wait a minute for it to dissolve, then swirl and consume the entire mixture immediately. Never attempt to split a tablet for multiple doses.

To take an orally disintegrating tablet, place it on your tongue and allow it to dissolve before swallowing, with or without water. Before your initial dose, inspect the blister pack, avoiding any torn or broken blisters or those lacking tablets.

If transitioning from another seizure medication to lamotrigine, your doctor will gradually adjust your doses. It may take several weeks to feel the full benefits of lamotrigine, so continue taking it even if you feel well.

Do not discontinue without consulting your doctor, even if you encounter side effects. Your doctor will likely taper your dose gradually. Abruptly stopping lamotrigine may lead to seizures. If discontinuing for any reason, consult your doctor before restarting.

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 initiating lamotrigine treatment, it’s important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, including to lamotrigine itself, or to any inactive ingredients in the product, as they could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before using this medication, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart problems such as irregular heartbeat or heart failure.
• Be aware that this medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Consuming alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you are certain it is safe to do so.
• Children taking this medication may be at a higher risk of developing skin rashes; refer to the Warning section for more information.
• Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of lamotrigine, particularly dizziness, loss of coordination, or fainting, which could increase the risk of falling.
• If you are pregnant, use this medication only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Lamotrigine passes into breast milk and may have adverse effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.

Form and Strength

Lamictal DC is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Lamictal DC chewable tablet:
  • 2 mg
  • 5 mg
  • 25 mg
  • 50 mg
  • 100 mg
  • 200 mg
• lamotrigine chewable tablet:
  • 25 mg
  • 50 mg
  • 100 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

1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lamotrigine/about-lamotrigine/#:~:text=It%20can%20take%20up%20to,feel%20low%20during%20this%20time
2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695007.html
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lamotrigine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067449?p=1
4. https://www.drugs.com/lamictal.html#warnings
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8486-7217/lamictal-oral/lamotrigine-oral/details
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470442/