Lamotrigine is an
anticonvulsant medication. It is chemically unrelated to other
anticonvulsant medications and is known as a drug that is effective in people who
were not helped by other, more traditional medications, when used as an anticonvulsant or as a mood stabilizer.
This medicine is not a cure for epilepsy, but this medication can help to control epileptic seizures, and it is often
used along with other medications for this same purpose. Prescribing information for children as young as 2 years old is available.
Lamotrigine is FDA approved for used as a mood stabilizer as a maintenance therapy, to prevent manic and depressive episodes.
It seems to be effective in a large proportion of patients who were not helped with other mood stabilizing drugs, and is especially
effective in bipolar depression.
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop
or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your
doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this
medicine.
• Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, back pain, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness,
double vision, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, increased cough, insomnia,
nausea, rash, runny nose, sleepiness, sore throat, uncoordinated
movements, vomiting.
• Additional side effects in children may include:
Bronchitis, convulsions, ear problems, eczema, facial swelling,
hemorrhage, infection, indigestion, light sensitivity, lymph node
problems, nervousness, penis disorder, sinus infection, swelling, tooth
problems, urinary tract infection, vertigo, vision problems.
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