Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/14/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Lamictal
  
• Generic Name: Lamotrigine
  
• Uses: Treating epilepsy and bipolar disorder
  
• Drug Class: Anticonvulsant
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Lamotrigine is a medication used primarily to manage epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants, which help to control electrical activity in the brain and prevent mood episodes in bipolar disorder.

Lamotrigine is used to treat:

• Epilepsy: Helps reduce the frequency of seizures.
  
• Bipolar disorder: Immediate-release lamotrigine is used to stabilize mood and prevent the extremes of depression and mania.
  
  

Lamotrigine works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and preventing the excessive release of neurotransmitters that can trigger seizures and mood swings. This action helps to control seizures and stabilize mood in patients with bipolar disorder.

Lamotrigine is available in different forms to suit specific needs:

• Oral tablets: Available as a tablet, chewable, and extended-release forms.
  
• Oral disintegrating tablets: Quickly dissolve on the tongue.
  
  

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and your response to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

The effectiveness of lamotrigine and the time it takes to notice improvement can vary among individuals. In the treatment of epilepsy, seizure control can improve soon after starting the medication. For bipolar disorder, it may take several weeks before mood stabilization is apparent.

Continue taking lamotrigine as prescribed even if you start feeling better. Do not abruptly stop the medication, as it may lead to a return of symptoms or, in the case of epilepsy, an increased risk of seizures.

While lamotrigine is primarily used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other neurological or psychiatric conditions.

Discuss any alternative uses of lamotrigine with your healthcare provider.

Lamotrigine is available in the following dosage forms:

• Chewable tablets: Typically available in 5 mg and 25 mg.
  
• Oral tablet: 25 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg.
  
• Extended-release tablets: Available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 250 mg, and 300 mg.
  
• Oral disintegrating tablets: Available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg.
  
  

Generic versions of lamotrigine are available.

Lamotrigine is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.