Take Lamictal exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each oral dose of Lamictal with a full glass of water.
Swallow the regular (nonchewable) Lamictal tablets whole. The tablets may have a very bitter taste if chewed, crushed, or broken.
The chewable, dispersible tablets can be swallowed whole, chewed, or mixed in water or diluted fruit juice. If you chew these tablets, drink a small amount of water or diluted fruit juice to aid in swallowing. To disperse these tablets, add the tablet(s) to a small amount of liquid (1 teaspoon or enough to cover the medication) in a glass or spoon. Approximately 1 minute later, when the tablet is completely dispersed, mix the solution and take the entire amount immediately.
Lamictal can be taken with or without food.
It is important to take Lamictal regularly to get the most benefit.
The dose of Lamictal must be increased slowly. It may be several weeks or months before the optimal dose can be determined.
Do not stop taking Lamictal without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking Lamictal to prevent symptoms from recurring. Stopping Lamictal suddenly may result in increased seizure frequency or a return of symptoms of bipolar disorder. If the medication needs to be stopped, your doctor may need to lower the dosage gradually.
If treatment with Lamictal is stopped for any reason, contact your doctor before restarting the medication. A lower dose may be needed to prevent side effects from occurring. Do not take more of this medication than is prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with Lamictal to monitor progress and side effects.
Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.
Store this medication at room temperature away from light and moisture.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical treatment.
Symptoms of a Lamictal overdose include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, increased seizures, and unconsciousness.
What should I avoid while taking Lamictal?
Lamictal may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform other hazardous activities until you know how Lamictal affects you. If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination, avoid these activities.
