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Anticonvulsant (anti-seizure); mood stabiliser

Lamotrigine: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Lamictal.

Esta información es solo orientativa de carácter general y no constituye un consejo médico. Consulta siempre a un profesional sanitario cualificado para cualquier asunto médico personal. En caso de emergencia, llama al número de emergencias de tu zona.

What it is used for

  • Epilepsy (several seizure types)
  • Bipolar disorder (mainly to prevent depressive episodes)

How it works

Lamotrigine steadies electrical activity in the brain by acting on sodium channels and reducing the release of excitatory signals. This helps prevent seizures and stabilise mood.

How it is taken

Usually available as standard and dispersible/chewable tablets taken by mouth. The amount is built up very slowly at the start to lower the risk of rash. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label; do not speed up the increase or stop suddenly.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness or trouble sleeping
  • Nausea
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Tremor
  • Tiredness
  • Mild rash (report any rash)

Serious effects — get help

  • Serious skin reactions: spreading rash, blistering, peeling, or sores in the mouth, eyes or genitals, often with fever (stop and seek emergency care)
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction with swollen glands, fever and organ involvement
  • Worsening mood or suicidal thoughts
  • Signs of blood or liver problems
  • Aseptic meningitis (severe headache, neck stiffness, fever)

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Valproate (raises lamotrigine levels and rash risk - doses are adjusted carefully)
  • Carbamazepine and some other seizure medicines (can lower its level)
  • Hormonal contraceptives (can lower lamotrigine levels; levels may change when starting or stopping them)
  • Some medicines processed by the body that affect its level

Who should take care

  • The slow dose build-up is essential to reduce the risk of serious rash - never rush it
  • Report any rash promptly, especially in the first weeks
  • Tell your clinician about starting or stopping hormonal contraception, as it can change lamotrigine levels
  • Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Do not stop suddenly; restart only as your clinician directs if doses are missed

Frequently asked questions

Why does lamotrigine have to be started so slowly?
Building the amount up gradually substantially lowers the risk of a serious skin reaction. Skipping ahead or restarting at a higher amount after missed doses raises that risk, so always follow the schedule exactly.
What should I do if I get a rash?
Report any rash to a clinician promptly, especially in the first weeks. Most rashes are harmless, but a few can be serious, so it is important to be checked quickly.
Does it interact with the contraceptive pill?
Yes. Hormonal contraceptives can lower lamotrigine levels, and starting or stopping them can affect how well it works. Tell your clinician about any changes.
Why is it used mainly for the depressive side of bipolar disorder?
Lamotrigine is particularly used to help prevent depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, under specialist care. It is one option among several mood stabilisers.
Is Lamotrigine safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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