What is Lamictal XR?
Lamictal is a medication that treats epilepsy.This medicine is also used to delay mood episodes in adults with a data-type="auto" href="https://www.drugs.com/cg/bipolar-disorder.html"> bipolar disorder/a> (a data-type="auto" href="https://www.drugs.com/cg/bipolar.html"). This medication is used to treat adults with bipolar disorder and manic depression.Lamictal XR with immediate release can be given to children as young as 2 years old as part of a combination seizure medication. This form is not recommended for children or teens younger than 16 as a sole medication.Lamictal XR Extended Release is only for adults and children over 13 years of age.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Lamictal XR.
Side effects of Lamictal XR
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat, or a severe reaction to the skin (fever or sore throat with burning eyes, skin rash, blistering or peeling skin, or red or purple rash), seek emergency medical attention.You may be unable to take Lamictal XR again if you stop taking it because of a severe skin rash.You should tell your doctor if any symptoms worsen or change, including changes in mood or behaviour, depressive or anxious feelings, or if they are new.
Lamictal XR may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Fast, slow, pounding, or fluttering heartbeats;
- Chest pain, shortness of breath
- Fever, swollen glands, weakness, and severe muscle pain;
- Any skin rash, particularly blistering or peeling
- You may experience painful sores around the eyes or in your mouth.
- Headache. Neck stiffness. Increased sensitivity to lights. Nausea.
- Jaundice
- Pale skin, cold feet and hands, easy bruises, unusual bleeding
Lamictal XR side effects may include:
- Headache, dizziness;
- Double vision, or blurred vision, is another name for this phenomenon.
- Tremors, loss of coordination
- Diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, and dry mouth.
- Fever, sore throat, and runny nose
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- Backache
- Sleep problems (insomnia).
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Lamictal XR can cause severe or even life-threatening rashes, especially when taken by children or people taking Valproic Acid, Depakene, or Divalproex, Depakote. Seek immediate medical attention if your skin has rashes, hives, or blisters.If you experience any other serious side effects, such as fever, swollen lymph glands, severe pain in the muscles, unusual bruising, yellowing skin or eyes, a headache, stiff neck, nausea, confusion, or an increased sensitivity to light, call your doctor immediately.Lamictal XR can cause suicidal thoughts in some people. Be alert if you notice any changes in your mood or symptoms. Inform your doctor if you experience any new symptoms or if they worsen.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to Lamictal XR, then it is best not to take the drug.Lamictal XR can cause severe or even life-threatening rashes, especially when taken by children, those taking a high dose at first, and people who are also taking valproic (Depakene) or divalproex (Depakote).
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- A rash or an allergic reaction following the use of another seizure drug;
- Kidney or a liver disease
- Heart problems like heart block and irregular heartbeats.
- Depression, thoughts of suicide, or suicidal actions
- After taking Lamictal XR, you may develop meningitis. This is an inflammation of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord.
Lamictal XR can cause suicidal thoughts in some people. Regular visits to your doctor are required to monitor your progress. You or your family members should be aware of any changes in mood or symptoms.Don't start or stop seizure medications during pregnancy without consulting your doctor. A seizure could be harmful to both mother and child. Inform your doctor immediately if you fall pregnant.You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to monitor the effects of lamotrigine.Birth control pills may make lamictal XR ineffective, resulting in increased seizures. Inform your doctor immediately if you stop or start using birth control pills. The dose of this medicine may need to change.Lamictal XR may cause problems if you are breastfeeding. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
How to take Lamictal XR?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.If you take too much Lamictal at the beginning of your treatment, it may increase your chances of developing a life-threatening rash.Your doctor may want to perform frequent blood tests in order to ensure that you are receiving the correct dose.Extended release and instant release can be used to treat different conditions. Check your refills regularly to ensure you are receiving the correct tablet size, shape, and color. Use only the strength and form prescribed by your doctor to avoid medication errors.Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and timing of Lamictal XR if you are switching from another seizure medication.Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with orally disintegrating tablets or dispersibles. If you don't understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist or doctor.Even if you are feeling fine, do not suddenly stop taking Lamictal XR. Sudden discontinuation may increase seizures. You should follow your doctor's advice about reducing your dosage.Wear or carry a medical identification card to alert others that you are taking seizure medication in an emergency.You may get false results if you use Lamictal XR during a urine drug test. Inform the lab staff that you are taking this medication.Store away from moisture and light at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.Refill your prescription before you run out.
What happens if I overdose?
Dial 1-800-222-1222 immediately or seek medical advice if consuming poison.Overdose symptoms include blurred vision or coordination problems, seizures, light-headedness, or fainting.
What should be avoided?
Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how Lamictal will affect you. You may have impaired reactions.
Interaction with other drug
Sometimes taking different medications together may not be recommended.Some drugs may affect the blood levels of drugs that you are taking, causing side effects or making them less effective.Lamictal XR may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
