Lamictal XR (Lamotrigine Extended-Release Tablets) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Lamictal XR

Seizure (Epilepsy) »

Introduction

Few experiences match the drama of a convulsive seizure. A person having a severe seizure may cry out, fall to the floor unconscious, twitch or move uncontrollably, drool, or even lose bladder control. Within minutes, the attack is over, and the person regains consciousness but is exhausted and dazed. This is the image most people have when they hear the word epilepsy. However, this type of seizure -- a generalized tonic-clonic seizure -- is only one kind of epilepsy. There are many other kinds, each with a different set of symptoms.

Epilepsy was one of the first brain disorders to be described. It was mentioned in ancient Babylon more than 3,000 years ago. The strange behavior caused by some seizures has contributed through the ages to many superstitions and prejudices. The word epilepsy is derived from the Greek word for "attack." People once thought that those with epilepsy were being visited by demons or gods. However, in 400 B.C., the early...

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Lamictal XR Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking lamotrigine?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to lamotrigine.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

kidney disease;
liver disease; or
heart disease.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether lamotrigine is harmful to an unborn baby. Taking this medication during early pregnancy can increase the risk of the baby being born with cleft lip or cleft palate. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Your name may need to be listed on a lamotrigine pregnancy registry when you start using this medication.

Lamotrigine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take lamotrigine?

The extended-release form of lamotrigine (Lamictal XR) may be used for different conditions than immediate-release lamotrigine is used for. Always check your refills to make sure you have received the correct brand and type of medicine prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose over several weeks or months to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

To make sure you are taking the right dose of lamotrigine, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

If you are switching to lamotrigine from another anticonvulsant medication, carefully follow your doctor's instructions about timing and dosage when switching from one drug to another.

Lamotrigine can be taken with or without food.

Take the regular lamotrigine tablet with a full glass of water.

To take the chewable dispersible tablet, you may either swallow it whole with a glass of water, or chew it first and then swallow it. You may also place the tablet into 1 teaspoon of water or diluted fruit juice and allow it to disperse in the liquid for about 1 minute. Gently swirl the liquid and then swallow all of the mixture right away. Do not save it for later use.

Do not stop taking lamotrigine without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. You may have increased seizures if you stop taking lamotrigine suddenly. You will need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking lamotrigine.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking lamotrigine, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.

Birth control pills can make lamotrigine less effective, which may result in increased seizures. Your lamotrigine dose may need to be changed when you start or stop using birth control pills. You may also have lamotrigine side effects during the weeks when you are taking an inactive (placebo) pill from your birth control pack.

Tell your doctor if you plan to stop taking birth control pills.

It is important to use lamotrigine regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store this medication at room temperature away from light and moisture.

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