Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on April 17, 2025
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request an Online Prescription
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:
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:
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:
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.
The use of lamotrigine can lead to various side effects in some individuals.
Common mild side effects of lamotrigine use include:
More severe side effects of lamotrigine use can include:
If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking lamotrigine, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with lamotrigine. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with lamotrigine.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
You should also mention medical conditions such as:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using lamotrigine to assess potential risks and benefits.
Take lamotrigine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
Lamotrigine should be taken with or without food, but try to be consistent in the way you take it to maintain even levels of the medicine in your body.
Monitor for signs of skin rash or allergic reactions, especially during the first few months of treatment or when changing doses.
In case of a lamotrigine overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, ataxia, unconsciousness, and seizures. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.
Lamotrigine is available in the following forms:
The typical starting dose of lamotrigine varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
For epilepsy, the typical starting dose can vary depending on the type of seizure being treated and whether the patient is taking other seizure medications.
For bipolar disorder:
The dosage may be adjusted based on the response and tolerance to the medication. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history, current medications, and response to the medication.
Lamotrigine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.
If you have any questions about your dosage or need adjustments, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you want to talk to a provider right away, consider scheduling an online doctor appointment through a telehealth platform like Sesame.
If you miss a dose of lamotrigine, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of lamotrigine in managing your condition.
Continue taking lamotrigine as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your provider, as it may lead to a recurrence of symptoms or other complications.
Complete the full course of treatment as directed to minimize the risk of relapse.
If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations.
Store lamotrigine according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep it at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Do not use expired medication or medications that appear damaged or discolored. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.