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Description

What is Lamictal XR?

Lamictal is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of seizures in people with epilepsy. Epilepsy usually develops when your brain’s electrical activity becomes uncontrolled and overactive, causing you to experience temporary episodes of unconsciousness. These episodes are the seizures that characterize epilepsy, and during them you may spasm violently or stare blankly depending on the type. This medication is also used for long-term treatment of a mood disorder called bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a long-term chemical imbalance that causes rapid changes in mood and behavior.

Lamictal can be helpful for children over the age of two years and adults that experience partial and tonic-clonic seizures as well as the seizures caused by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is a severe form of epilepsy that begins in childhood, usually between five and six years of age.

 

How does Lamictal XR work?

Lamictal is an extended-release oral tablet that contains the active ingredient Lamotigrine, and it belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. For people with epilepsy, this drug reduces the release of a substance in your brain known as glutamate. This action prevents the neurons in your brain from becoming too active. As a result, you may have fewer seizures. For people with bipolar disorder, this drug may affect certain receptors in your brain that help control your mood. This could decrease the number of mood episodes you have.

Before taking Lamictal or the Lamotrigine generic, read all the instructions that were provided by your pharmacist. Take Lamictal orally once a day with a full glass of water. Swallow the tablet or the extended-release tablet whole; do not break, crush, or chew it. There is an oral liquid form of this medicine if you or your child cannot swallow the tablets. Lamictal can be administered with or without a meal. Make sure you take the medication at the same time each day to create a routine for yourself and to ensure an even spread of the Lamotrigine dosage in your system. For optimal results take this medication on a regular basis. Do not change or increase your dose. You should continue taking this medication even if you feel well.

Cautions

Lamictal or the Lamotrigine generic may contain medical and non medical ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction. Consult with your doctor about any known allergies before taking Lamictal. Speak with your doctor about any known medical conditions relating to problems with blood flow to the brain, diabetes, heart problems, problems with your nervous system problems, low white blood cell count, problems swallowing, and troubles breathing while asleep. Tell your doctor about any current medications or supplementation to avoid interactions or unwanted side effects of Lamotrigine.

You should always tell your healthcare professional about all prescription, non-prescription, over the counter (OTC), illegal and recreational drugs, herbal remedies, and nutritional and dietary supplements. Certain medications may cause Lamictal to be less effective or produce side effects.

Lamictal has been known to cause suicidal thoughts/actions in a small number of people who are using it. You should contact your doctor immediately if you have thoughts of suicide and/or attempt to commit suicide, or if you experience new or worsening depression, anxiety, and irritability.

Side Effects

Some Lamictal XR side effects include:

Weight loss, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation, loss of balance, trouble speaking, missed/painful menstrual periods, double vision, appetite loss, eye movement you can't control, and concentration problems.

Some serious Lamictal XR side effects include:

Chest pain, stiff neck, passing out, abnormal seizure activity, swelling of hands/feet/arms/legs, headache, and light sensitivity.

This drug can cause rare but serious rashes that can be life-threatening. These rashes can occur at any time, but they are most likely to happen within the first two to eight weeks of starting this drug. Don’t increase your dosage of this drug more quickly than your doctor tells you. Your doctor may have you stop taking this drug at the first sign of rash.

If any Lamictal or side effects of Lamotrigine become unmanageable speak with your doctor or pharmacist for help in managing any side effects. For any serious side effects that occur speak with your doctor right away for further treatment options.

FAQs

Q: What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

A: A relapse in symptoms may occur depending on the severity of the condition, and you may experience side effects. You should speak to your doctor before you stop taking this medication.

 

Q: What is the best dosage to take for Lamictal?

A: You doctor will be able to determine the best Lamictal XR dosage from the initial diagnosis.

 

Q: How long does it take for this medication to become active?

A: It can take a few weeks before this drug has full effect. Continue to take this medication at the same time everyday to ensure a successful treatment.

 

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the missed dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule and do not take a double dose.

 

Q: What is the best way to store this medication?

A: This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. 

 

Q: How do I dispose of this medication?

A: Do not throw away this medication in wastewater. Some medication can be thrown away in dry waste, and some require a little preparation for disposal. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist to safely dispose any unwanted or experienced medication.

 

Q: Is this medication safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: Speak with your doctor about the risk associated with using this drug while pregnant. It is uncertain if this drug can pass into the breast milk of nursing mother. Consult your doctor to understand the risk in using this medication while breastfeeding.

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