Lamictal, or lamotrigine, is a prescription drug classified as an anticonvulsant. It is used in the treatment of seizures in children and adults and in the management of bipolar disorder. Lamictal blocks chemicals in the brain and stabilizes the nerve cells to prevent seizures. This action also leads to an improvement in the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Lamictal has the potential to cause several side effects, and patients may wish to speak with their physicians before initiating therapy.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is a common side effect that may occur in users of Lamictal. The "Drug Information Handbook" reports that up to 14 percent of patients may experience nausea. Vomiting is also common and can occur in about 9 percent of individuals. Food does not affect the absorption of the medication so you may want to try taking the drug with a meal to avoid nausea and vomiting. You should eat light and avoid fatty meals. Also, chewing gum may alleviate these adverse effects.
Effects on the Brain
Lamictal may have several side effects on the brain. Dizziness may occur in up to 7 percent of patients and drowsiness may occur in up to 9 percent. Be careful when driving or performing activities that require alertness. Lack of coordination or abnormal coordination may be seen in about 7 percent of individuals. Use caution when climbing stairs and rising from a lying or sitting position until effects of the drug are known. About 5 percent of patients may experience a partial loss of sensation. If you experience any of these adverse events, inform your physician right away. According to "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach," Lamictal has proven to cause fewer side effects on the brain than other medications used for seizures. This makes it useful when patients experience severe impairment on other drugs.
Suicidal Ideation
Patients on Lamictal may experience suicidal ideation. The "Drug Information Handbook" states that about 5 percent of patients may experience this side effect. Abnormal thoughts and abnormal dreams may also occur in about 5 percent of individuals on this drug. Depression is another side effect seen in 5 percent of users. The patient should be monitored appropriately. If you develop thoughts about hurting yourself or someone else, seek medical help immediately.
Effect on the Eyes
Lamictal may cause abnormal vision in about 5 percent of users. Involuntary eye movement has been seen in 5 percent of patients, as well. In some patients, vision changes may occur in one eye, causing it to become weaker as the brain chooses to accept images from only the stronger eye. These changes lead to poor vision. Any visual changes should be reported to a physician right away.
Rash
Lamictal has the potential to cause a rash and is the most common reason for stopping the medication. About 7 percent of patients may experience a rash that is not serious, according to the "Drug Information Handbook." However, in some cases the rash may be severe or life-threatening. You should stop taking the medication and inform your physician right away if you develop any itchiness or redness on the skin. A serious skin rash is more likely to develop with high doses of Lamictal or when you are taking valproic acid or divalproex, explains Drugs.com. A serious skin rash may involve a fever, headache, blistering and peeling. If these symptoms are present, contact your doctor immediately.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2007
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Josep T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert., et al.; 2008
- Drugs.com: Lamictal
Member Comments