Lamictal

Lamictal is used to control certain kinds of seizures pertinent to epilepsy. However, you need to bear in mind that Lamictal is not designed to heal epilepsy; it is only meant to control seizures. You can control seizures for as long as you use Lamictal. Other than this, Lamictal is also used for treating bipolar disorder. Lamictal can be used in oral form; you can also find chewable or dispersible tablets of Lamictal.

You need to use Lamictal in consultation with your doctor. Before you start using this drug, you need to intimate your physician if you have certain allergies. For example, if you are allergic to Lamictal or any other drugs you should tell your doctor. If you are allergic to some kind eatables, in this case as well, you must inform your doctor about them before beginning the course of Lamictal.

For women who are expecting, it is essential for them to intimate their doctor about their pregnancy before they adhere to Lamictal. Breast-feeding mothers also need to consult their doctors before using this drug. This is because it does passes into breast milk, nevertheless it is not proven if it can harm the wellbeing of the baby or not. It is advised to tell the physician about all these states to be on the safe side.

As Lamictal may have negative reaction if used along with certain drugs, you need to intimate your doctor if you are using medicines such as Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital or Phenytoin. Other drugs which may not be used with Lamictal are Primidone and Valproic acid. As these drugs can affect the blood levels of Lamictal which may result in certain side effects it is essential to tell your doctor if you are using them; he may make some changes in your Lamictal or other medicines’ dose.

If you are using birth control pills, you should inform doctor before starting the course of Lamictal. This is because these pills can mar the effectiveness of Lamictal. As a result, your seizures may increase.

Besides these medicines, other medical issues may affect Lamictal as well. In case if you have problems such as heart or liver ailments, or Thalassemia, you need to tell your doctor about them before taking Lamictal.

Indications for using Lamictal

You need to use Lamictal precisely as your doctor has indicated you. Following the prescription allows you to stay away from unwanted side effects of Lamictal. You must not take this medicine in larger amount or for more than the period recommended by your doctor. You can use Lamictal on empty or full stomach. For taking Lamictal in chewable/dispersible tablets, you need to swallow the entire tablet with a glass of water. You can also chew it or dilute in liquid. In case you want to dilute it in liquid you should have it once it is fully dispersed in the liquid. Then you need to mix it and consume it instantly.

The doses of Lamictal vary from patient to patient. It also depends on the other drugs which you might be using. Whatever doses your doctor has advised you need to adhere to that.

Your doctor may alter the dose over a period of time in order to ensure you get the maximum outcome from Lamictal. Furthermore, you may require conducting blood test regularly while using this drug. In case you have to quit taking Lamictal, you should always consult your doctor before taking such a step. Stopping the drug suddenly may result in increased seizures.

Storing Lamictal

You need to keep Lamictal at room temperature. It must not be exposed to moisture or light as well.

What to do in case of missing a dose or taking overdose?

If you missed a dose of Lamictal, you must take it as soon you recall. However, if it is already time for the next dose, you can skip the missed dose and take the next one. There is not need to taking more amount of Lamictal in case to compensate for the missed dose.

If you take too much of Lamictal by mistake, you need to contact your doctor immediately. If you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, fainting or increased seizures, you need to get medical assistance instantly.

Side effects of Lamictal

Just like other medicines, Lamictal may have certain side effects as well. Some people may experience serious side effects while other may undergo severe ones. In case you notice hives, fever or swollen you must intimate your doctor immediately. If you undergo difficulty in breathing or your face or lips swell, you should get emergency medical help as well. Lamictal can cause serious (sometimes life-threatening) skin rash. Particularly when it is used by children or those who are allergic to seizure medications, this side effect can be evident. Fever, sore throat, and swollen glands also include the serious side effects of Lamictal which call for immediate medical attention.

In case of changes in mood, depression or anxiety, you need to intimate your doctor. Some people also feel agitated, or restless, which are severe side effects of Lamictal. If you undergo fever, body aches and pain in your chest, easy bruising or bleeding, then as well you must seek emergency medical help. Some other serious side effects of Lamictal include dark colored urine, loss of appetite, and yellowing of skin or eyes.

Some people only experience less serious side effects of this drug such as dizziness, blurred vision or mild nausea. Some may also undergo diarrhea or headache while others report of weight loss or insomnia. However, these are mild side effects and if you experience any there is nothing to worry about. Besides these serious and mild side effects, there can be more symptoms as well. To be on the safe side, if you notice any unusual physical condition or change in your emotional state you should see your doctor without delay.