Lamictal is the brand name in the United States for the anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine. Doctors also prescribe this medication in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder, or manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness that causes a cyclical shifting from extraordinarily good moods to dreadfully low moods. MayoClinic.com says that Lamictal can help sufferers older than 18 balance these mood swings, though there are side effects associated with its use.
Vision Problems
Among the most common serious side effects associated with taking Lamictal is vision problems. These difficulties require immediate consultation with a physician, MayoClinic.com states. The medication can cause various troubles with eyesight including difficulty seeing far or near and diplopia, the medical term for double vision.
Unsteadiness
Taking Lamictal can diminish coordination. This serious and common side effect of the drug can make a person feel unsteady and cause clumsiness. These problems, while not necessarily pronounced at first, require a doctor's attention.
Constipation and Diarrhea
Often, new medications can affect digestion. Lamictal, for example, can induce constipation or diarrhea upon initial use. Abdominal cramps, diarrhea and constipation can be experienced, producing discomfort. Drugs.com indicates these side effects classify as non-serious and typically resolve without a physician's intervention. If symptoms worsen or persist, however, medical attention should be sought.
Dysmenorrhea
When a woman takes Lamictal for her bipolar disorder treatment, she may experience a condition called dysmenorrhea, which is painful menstrual cycles. This pain may occur as a more severe problem than typical cramps associated with menstruation. Drugs.com indicates that while this common, uncomfortable side effect can occur because of the drug, it does not classify as serious.
Nausea
Primarily at the start of Lamictal use, the person may experience queasiness. This nausea, often followed by vomiting, may accompany pain in the stomach as well, Drugs.com indicates. These side effects, while not classified as serious, also can cause a feeling of weakness as well as weight loss. This should resolve as the user acclimates to the medication.
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