Some important information about the use of Lamotrigine
If you or a loved one have been prescribed lamotrigine, you may be curious about it.
The good news is that you don’t have to look any further to get information with Chemist2U. Read on and learn about the critical aspects of lamotrigine, including how it works, potential side effects, and important considerations regarding its interaction with other medications.
In this article

How does lamotrigine work?
Lamotrigine, commonly sold under the brand name Lamictal, is an anticonvulsant or bipolar disorder medication that plays a vital role in managing certain neurological and mental health conditions. It’s primarily prescribed to treat generalised tonic-clonic seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, as well as for maintenance therapy in bipolar I disorder.[1]
The exact mechanism of how lamotrigine works for neurological treatment isn’t totally understood, but in simpler terms, it involves a process of stabilisation.
As a triazine, lamotrigine selectively binds to and inhibits specific sodium channels in brain cells. This action helps stabilise the nerve cell membranes and reduces the release of certain neurotransmitters like glutamate and aspartate, minimising abnormal electrical activity in the brain and reducing the frequency of seizures and the intensity of mood fluctuations associated with bipolar disorder.[2]
How do you take lamotrigine?
This medication is available in a variety of strengths, including 25 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg tablets. It also comes in chewable, dispersible tablets at 2 mg, 5 mg, and 25 mg, as well as orally disintegrating tablets at 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. All formulations should be stored at room temperature, away from light, to maintain their effectiveness.
Your lamotrigine dosage should be tailored to your specific health needs. Generally, the recommended quantity is as follows:
The initial dose for managing seizures is usually 25 mg daily, which is gradually increased – typically at week three to 50 mg daily – and then at week five, it is increased by an additional 50 mg weekly or every other week. The maintenance dose generally ranges between 225 mg and 375 mg, divided into two doses.
For those managing bipolar I, the dosage is often set between 200 mg and 400 mg, taking into account any other medications you might be taking alongside lamotrigine for mood disorder management.
It’s important to remember that these are only general suggestions, and only your doctor can determine the right dosage for your unique situation.
Who can take lamotrigine?
Lamotrigine is generally safe for most adults and children aged two years and older.[3] However, if you’ve previously experienced an allergic reaction to lamotrigine or any other medication, have liver or kidney issues, or have a history of certain mental health challenges, such as thoughts of self-harm or bipolar disorder, it’s especially important to discuss these with your doctor beforehand.
It’s crucial to have an open conversation with your doctor to ensure the medication is the right fit for you. If needed, they may recommend antiepileptic drug alternatives for you, such as Topamax (Topiramate).
Side effects of lamotrigine
Lamotrigine, like any medication, comes with potential side effects.
Common side effects may include nervousness, drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue and rash, while rare side effects comprise maculopapular rash, angioedema, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and acute multiorgan failure.[4]
If you experience any adverse reactions, including those not mentioned above, it’s best to consult your doctor.
Lamotrigine and other medications
Taking lamotrigine alongside other pharmaceuticals requires careful consideration and informed clinical judgement, especially given the complex interactions that can affect lamotrigine levels in your body.
For instance, combining lamotrigine with dofetilide is strongly discouraged due to the severe interaction they can cause.
Other medications that warrant attention for their potential interactions include valproic acid, rifampin, oestrogen-containing contraceptives, oestrogen replacement therapy medications, and certain barbiturates. These interactions can significantly impact the effectiveness and safety of lamotrigine.[5]
Medicines you should not use with lamotrigine
There are specific medicines that may have significant interactions with lamotrigine. Hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) warrant caution, as they can significantly alter the efficacy of lamotrigine.
Other notable mentions include OCT 2 substrates like dofetilide as well as rifampicin, which is commonly used in tuberculosis treatment, and the HIV treatment combination of lopinavir and ritonavir. Additionally, taking risperidone, used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, alongside lamotrigine might increase feelings of sleepiness or drowsiness.[6]
If you’re taking any of these medications with lamotrigine, adjustments in dosage or a change in medication might be necessary for your safety and well-being.
How to order lamotrigine through Chemist2U
Ordering home delivery of lamotrigine and managing your prescriptions is easy with Chemist2U. Access our online pharmacy services through our user-friendly script app or by using this website. Here, you have the option to easily upload your eScript and save your prescriptions online.
Our platform also allows you to add over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products to your order, mirroring the convenience of a physical pharmacy but with the added benefit of medication delivery to your doorstep. Rest assured, each order receives the attentive care of a qualified partner pharmacist in your local area.
Order home delivery at Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12962521/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470442/
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lamotrigine/who-can-and-cannot-take-lamotrigine/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548562/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470442
[6] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/dbba0f4a-d6e0-49bf-a7a7-a53300ff4fbf.pdf