Lamictal is a brand-name anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant, that can also be prescribed under its generic name, lamotrigine. Lamictal is used to treat seizures in adults and in children who are at least two years old. Lamictal has also become known for its use in adults with bipolar disorder; prescribing Lamictal as a maintenance drug has been found to increase the period between episodes of severe mood swings for many bipolar patients.
Lamictal can be used alone or in combination with other medications, including carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone or valproate; users of Lamictal have reported numerous common side effects.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Some common side effects from the use of Lamictal can best be described as flu-like symptoms. The medication guide published by the makers of Lamictal indicate that these side effects include nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, stuffy or running nose, fever, headache, muscle aches and dry mouth. Often, flu-like side effects are the result of beginning this medication for the first time or adjusting to a dosage increase. These symptoms usually decrease or stop altogether within two weeks; however, if they do not, contact your doctor for follow-up care.
Coordination and Vision Problems
For some people, Lamictal results in a lack of coordination, drowsiness and blurred or double vision. Drowsiness and fatigue make poor coordination and blurred vision even more potentially dangerous. Sleep disturbance can also occur, including insomnia. Information at Lamictal.com indicates that you should not operate vehicles until you know how Lamictal will affect you.
Rashes and Skin Reactions
Based on clinical trials, approximately 10 percent of patients taking Lamictal experienced a rash on some area of their bodies. Although most rashes caused by Lamictal are not severe, one in particular is cause to immediately cease use of Lamictal. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), which is a severe rash that can travel through all the mucous membranes in the body, can be life-threatening. Symptoms of this syndrome often begin with sore throat and fever, followed closely by blistering, lesions and ulcers mainly in the mouth, on the lips and in the genital region. These lesions will be very painful and most closely compare to burns caused by excessive heat. It is absolutely essential to stop taking Lamictal and get medical assistance immediately if any of these severe symptoms are noted. However, do not panic about SJS. It is a rare side effect and usually occurs in the first two months of Lamictal use, if at all. If you are beginning Lamictal treatment for the first time, be aware of the symptoms for safety's sake.
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