Lamotrigine: how to take it safely
Lamictal
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats epilepsy and bipolar disorder.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Start low and increase slowly, exactly as your doctor told you.
When to take it
Take it once or twice a day at the same times.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Missing doses. This can trigger seizures.
- Stopping suddenly. Your doctor will lower the dose slowly.
- Alcohol.
- Driving or using machines until you know how it affects you.
- Starting at a higher dose than prescribed, which raises the risk of a serious rash.
- Hormonal contraceptives can change its level. Tell your doctor.
Possible side effects
Headache, dizziness, double vision, nausea, tiredness.
Get help if
Rash, fever, swollen glands, mouth ulcers or blisters: stop it and get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.