Lamotrigine

chemical structure of lamotrigine

Lamotrigine (marketed as Lamictal) is an anti-epileptic drug that is used to treat partial seizures, primary and secondary tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It is usually taken with along with other epilepsy medications.

Serious side effects are rare, but lamotrigine can cause a dangerous rash to develop in some people, and blood disorders are even more uncommon. More common are headaches, dizziness and insomnia. The rash is more common in children, so this medication is usually avoided in under 16s if possible.

Lamotrigine can also be used as a mood stabilizer for treatment of bipolar disorder. It is also believed to have some antidepressant effects.

See also

• A rare side effect: Stevens-Johnson's syndrome

External links

• http://www.psycheducation.org/depression/meds/moodstabilizers.htm
• http://www.psycheducation.org/depression/meds/lamotrigine.htm