Lamotrigine is a member of the anti-convulsant class of medications, which means that it works to decrease electrical activity in the brain. Lamotrigine can be used to treat some forms of epilepsy, but it can also be used to treat such psychiatric disorders as bipolar disorder (manic-depression) and schizophrenia.
Skin Side Effects
PsyCom.net says about one in 10 patients experience a rash of some sort as a result of using this medication. In many cases the rash is mild enough that it can be treated with an antihistamine. Severe rashes, however, can result in a dangerous condition known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Any rash that occurs after starting lamotrigine should be reported to a physician.
Neurological
Medline notes that lamotrigine can also cause certain neurological side effects. These include confusion, problems with thinking and concentrating, as well as problems with speech. Some patients also experience dizziness and vision problems, which may manifest themselves as double vision, blurred vision, or crossed eyes. In rare cases lamotrigine can cause seizures or make already occurring seizures worse.
Emotional
Lamotrigine can cause changes in the your emotional state. Patients taking lamotrigine can become nervous and agitated. Some patients also experience problems with insomnia. EMedTV says lamotrigine can cause depression and suicidal thoughts in some patients.
Gastrointestinal
Some of the side effects of lamotrigine affect the gastrointestinal system. Patients with these side effects may experience nausea, diarrhea or constipation, indigestion and heartburn.
Liver
Lamotrigine can also be toxic to the liver. Patients taking lamotrigine should be aware of the signs of liver problems, which include easy bruising and uncontrolled bleeding as well as pain in the upper right portion of the abdomen. Liver damage can lead to jaundice, which results in a characteristic yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
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