Lamotrigine
Lamotrigine stabilises electrical signalling in the brain and is used for selected seizure disorders and bipolar disorder. It must be introduced carefully because a new rash can occasionally signal a severe reaction.
Key points
- Lamotrigine is adjusted gradually, and restarting after an interruption may require a new plan.
- Valproate and oestrogen-containing contraceptives can substantially change lamotrigine levels or response.
- A new rash with blisters, mouth sores, fever, facial swelling or swollen glands needs urgent assessment.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
What Lamotrigine is used for
Lamotrigine may be used alone or with other medicines for selected forms of epilepsy. It is also used to help prevent mood episodes in bipolar disorder; it is not a rapid treatment for every acute mood symptom.
How it works
Lamotrigine reduces excessive release of excitatory chemical messengers by stabilising voltage-sensitive sodium channels. The clinical effect develops as treatment is adjusted.
Important safety checks
Previous medicine rash, liver or kidney problems, pregnancy and all other antiseizure or mood medicines require review. Do not stop suddenly. If several doses have been missed, contact the prescriber before restarting rather than resuming automatically.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for a new spreading or painful rash, blistering or peeling skin, mouth or eye sores, fever with swollen glands, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, severe headache with neck stiffness, a prolonged seizure or thoughts of self-harm.
Further reading
Related articles
Understand why lithium, lamotrigine, antipsychotics and valproate have different roles, interactions, pregnancy risks and monitoring needs.
Read guide