Lamictal / Lamotrigine Side Effects

Lamictal - generic name lamotrigine - is an anticonvulsant medication that may be prescribed as a mood stabilizer in the treatment of bipolar disorder. In general, Lamictal is safe and well-tolerated. However, there are some very rare, but potentially serious and even life threatening side-effects. They include:

• Serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
• Aseptic meningitis
• Rare increase in suicidal ideation

For a summary of reactions that may be serious, see Serious Warnings on Potential Reactions to Lamictal.

Other side effects are also possible. Here is a list from most common to most serious.

Lamictal Side Effects:

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

More Common: Blurred, double vision or other changes in vision; dizziness; clumsiness or unsteadiness; nausea; insomnia; headache; sleepiness; back pain; fatigue; runny or stuffy nose; abdominal pain; dry mouth; abnormal dreaming

Less Common: Anxiety, confusion, depression, irritability, or other mood or mental changes; involuntary eye movements

Always notify your doctor immediately if you experience these Lamictal side effects, as some are extremely dangerous:

More Common: ANY skin rash. These can be extremely dangerous - see Lamictal Rash Warning for detailed information.

Less Common: Withdrawal seizures

Rare: Blistering, peeling or loosening of skin; dark-colored urine; fever, chills and/or sore throat; flu-like symptoms; itching; muscle cramps, pain or weakness; red or irritated eyes; small red or purple spots on skin; sores, ulcers or white spots on lips or in mouth; swelling of face, mouth, hands or feet; swollen lymph nodes; trouble in breathing; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness; yellow eyes or skin

Lamictal Overdose Effects - Notify Doctor Immediately:

Clumsiness or unsteadiness (severe); coma; involuntary eye movements (severe); dizziness (severe); drowsiness (severe); dryness of mouth; increased heart rate; slurred speech (severe)

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice anything unusual while taking Lamictal or lamotrigine, check with your doctor.

Disclaimer: This is not intended to be all-inclusive or to replace information provided by your doctor or with the prescription from the manufacturer.