A prescription medication,
Lamictal® XR™ (
extended-release lamotrigine) is approved to treat partial-onset
seizures (also called partial
seizures or focal seizures). It is meant for use in people age 13 and up, and is used in combination with other seizure drugs.
The product comes in the form of a tablet that is taken once a day. Because Lamictal XR is an extended-release medicine, it's important to swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew, cut, or crush the tablets. When first starting you on this medication, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe a lower dosage and gradually increase the amount until the ideal dose is reached.
In one clinical study, adding Lamictal XR to the group's current seizure medicines was shown to reduce seizure frequency by 47 percent (compared to 25 percent in the group who had a placebo added). Studies have also looked at possible side effects; the most commonly reported ones include weakness, dizziness, and
diarrhea.
(For more information on this medication, click Lamictal XR. This article takes an in-depth look at how the drug works, safety issues to be aware of before taking it, and why it may not be suitable for everyone.)
