Side Effects of Lamictal

According to the medical experts at Drugs.com, Lamictal, a brand name for the generic lamotrigine, is a drug used to manage seizures in patients with epilepsy. It is also used to treat Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, a severe type of epilepsy. Along with its many benefits are unwelcome side effects. Some are common and may subside over a period of time, while others are more severe and require medical attention and discontinuation of the drug.

Common Side Effects

According to eMedTV.com, the most common side effects of Lamictal include dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, vomiting, double vision, problems with coordination, nausea, drowsiness, abdominal pain, tremors, back pain, chills, body aches, indigestion, diarrhea, fever, insomnia, feeling weak, constipation and weight loss.

Severe Side Effects

If you experience any severe side effects, the experts at Drugs.com recommend discontinuing the use of Lamictal and notifying your doctor promptly. These side effects include worsening of seizures, depression, jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes), anxiety, extreme muscular pain and thoughts of suicide. You should also watch for signs of an allergic reaction, including swelling of your mouth, lips, tongue or face; hives; fever; or the appearance of sores in or around your mouth.

Rare Side Effects

There are rare side effects that occur in less than five percent of patients who take Lamictal. These include vaginal or bladder infections, joint pain, neck pain, nervousness, memory loss, frequent bloody noses, severe perspiration, weight gain, problems with your speech or concentration, loss of appetite, dry skin and increased libido (sex drive).

Side Effects in Children

According to the experts at Drugs.com, there are certain side effects which may only affect children. They include a sensitivity to light, sinus and urinary tract infections, tooth decay, eczema, hemorrhaging, swelling in the face and problems with vision.

References

Article reviewed by MER Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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