Lamotrigine (Lamictal) Drug for Epilepsy: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Lamotrigine
(Lamictal, United States and Canada)

Use:

Lamotrigine or Lamictal is used in seizure conditions, like epilepsy. It is a drug that is added to a drug regime when seizures are not under good control.

How It Works:

Lamotrigine or Lamictal inhibits the release of neuro chemicals which cause excitation in the nervous system. By inhibiting these neuro chemicals or neuro transmitters, seizures are controlled.

Side Effects:

Lamotrigine or Lamictal can cause allergic skin reactions.

Cautions for People:

People with epilepsy should be followed carefully to ensure that they are getting the most benefit from Lamotrigine or Lamictal.

Drug Interactions:

In combination with other anti convulsant drugs, Lamotrigine or Lamictal doesn't change the other drugs' levels; but other anti convulsant drugs have effects on Lamotrigine or Lamictal. Phenytoin, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital can speed up Lamotrigine or Lamictal's metabolism herby lowering blood levels. Valproic acid slows Lamotrigine or Lamictal's metabolism, thus raising blood levels.

Further Reading:

J Pediatr 1995;127:991
Epilepsia 1993;34(2):312
Drugs 1993;45(suppl3):59
Med Letter 1995;37:37

Added to Virtual Drugstore August 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.