Lamictal XR (Lamotrigine ER)

What is Lamictal XR?

Lamictal (lamotrigine) is an anti-epileptic medicine. It is also called anticonvulsant.

What is Lamictal XR used for?

Lamictal is used to control, prevent and treat seizures caused by epilepsy in children (2 years of age and older) and adults. It is also used to delay mood swings of bipolar disorder in adults.

How does Lamictal XR work?

Lamictal works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

How to use Lamictal XR

Lamictal should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The drug is usually taken with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.

The dispersible or chewable tablets may be chewed, swallowed whole, or mixed in water or juice. If you want to chew the tablet, drink a small amount of water or juice to make swallowing easier. If you want to take the dispersed form of the tablet, add the tablet to a small amount of liquid in a spoon or glass. Wait until the tablet gets dissolved and drink the mixture right away.

Get your blood tested on a regular basis.

Lamictal XR warnings and precautions

Do not use this drug if you are allergic to lamotrigine.  Prior to taking Lamictal, tell your doctor if you are suffering from a kidney, liver, or heart disease. 

While using Lamictal, avoid performing activities that require alertness.

Pregnant women should not use this drug without consulting their doctors as the drug may cause harm to an unborn baby. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. Lamictal can pass into breast milk and might harm a nursing baby. Therefore, lactating women should not use this drug unless prescribed by the doctor.

Birth control pills can make the drug less effective and may cause increased seizures. Do not start or stop taking hormonal form of birth control without consulting your doctor. If you see any changes in your menstrual cycle, tell your doctor. Also, intimate your doctor in advance if you plan to stop taking birth control pills.

What do I do if I have missed a Lamictal XR dose?

If you have missed your Lamictal dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Lamictal XR overdose?

If you have taken a Lamictal overdose, you should seek medical attention.

Lamictal XR interactions

Before taking Lamictal, consult your doctor if you take carbamazepine (Tegretol, Carbatrol), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), divalproex (Depakote), phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital (Solfoton, Luminal), valproic acid (Depakene), primidone (Mysoline), rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rifadin, Rimactane), or hormonal forms of birth control (pills, implants, injections, skin patches).

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use. Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Lamictal XR side effects

Lamictal side effects include hives, swollen glands, fever, chills, painful sores in or around eyes or mouth, breathing trouble, skin rash, sore throat, headache, chest pain, pale skin, bruising, bleeding, body ache, muscle pain, weakness, dark colored urine, clay-colored stools, nausea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, jaundice, swelling, behavior or mood changes, anxiety, depression, restlessness, hyperactivity (mental or physical) and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Lamictal, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor right away.

[If your doctor has advised you to stop taking the medicine because of a serious skin rash, you may not be able to take the medicine again in future.]

Blurred vision, drowsiness, dizziness, mild nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, runny or stuffy nose, weight loss, lack of coordination, and insomnia are some less serious side effects from Lamictal.