Lamictal, or lamotrigine, is prescribed for patients who suffer from partial seizures caused by epilepsy or generalized seizures of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Lamictal has also recently been discovered as an effective adjunctive treatment for tonic-clonic seizures. Numerous side effects from Lamictal therapy exists, the most serious of which is Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Patients should be closely monitored during Lamictal therapy and any sign of rash should be reported immediately to a doctor.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
The most numerous side effects suffered by persons taking Lamictal affect the central nervous system. According to the PDR of Nurses Drug Handbook 2010, ataxia (loss of muscle control and coordination), dizziness, headache, increased periods of sleep, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, irritability, tremors, vertigo and most seriously, seizures, are common side effects of Lamictal. Patients concerned with these side effects should discuss them with their doctor. Any patient who experiences seizures should immediately report them to their primary care physician.
Integumentary Side Effects
The integumentary, or skin, side effects in prescribed users of Lamictal are few, but very serious. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis both result in the top layer of the skin dying and sloughing off. A patient should be aware of any flu-like symptoms they feel as these symptoms will often appear before any signs or symptoms of rash. Any rash that begins to develop should be immediately reported to a physician in order that aggressive treatment is urgently begun and the drug discontinued. According to Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference, the recovery period from Stevens-Johnson syndrome may extend into months.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Gastrointestinal upset in those patients taking Lamictal are most commonly managed through over-the-counter remedies found at the drug store. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and constipation are the most common side effects. Should vomiting and diarrhea continue more than 24 hours, patients are advised to call their doctors as electrolyte imbalances are possible and may lead to dehydration and cardiac dysrhymias.
Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Side Effects
Blurred vision, diplopia (seeing double) and rhinitis (nasal congestion) are mild side effects associated with Lamictal medication.
Sun Sensitivity Side Effects
Patients have found an increased risk of sunburn and eyes sensitive to sunlight when prescribed Lamictal. Sunscreen and sunglasses should be worn when patients are exposed to the sunlight for an extended period of time.
Seizure Risk Side Effects
Abrupt cessation of Lamictal therapy has been known to cause an increased risk of seizures. Patients should not stop taking Lamictal without the advice and consent of their doctors.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010;" Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference;" Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
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