What is Lamictal?
The exact way that Lamictal works is unknown. However, it is believed that Lamictal affects chemicals in the brain involved in seizures and in bipolar disorder.
Lamictal is used alone or in combination with other medications in the treatment of seizures. Lamictal is also used in the treatment of bipolar disorder.
Lamictal may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Lamictal?
In rare cases, Lamictal has been associated with severe and/ or life-threatening rashes and hypersensitivity reactions. Seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you develop any skin rash; fever; hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; sores in the mouth or around the eyes; or swollen lymph glands.
Before taking Lamictal, tell your doctor if you have heart, liver, or kidney disease or other serious medical problems. You may not be able to take Lamictal, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
Do not start or stop using birth control pills or other female hormonal products until you have consulted your doctor. Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you experience changes in your menstrual pattern (e.g., break-through bleeding) while taking Lamictal and birth control pills or other female hormonal products.
Lamictal is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Lamictal will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Lamictal passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Lamictal without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
