Does Lamictal XR Cause Weight Gain?
Weight gain is a possible -- although relatively uncommon -- side effect of
Lamictal® XR™ (
extended-release lamotrigine). In clinical trials, up to 2 percent of people taking
Lamictal XR plus other
seizure medications experienced weight gain, compared to only 1 percent of people taking a placebo (a sugar pill with no active ingredients) plus other
seizure medications.
Suggestions for Dealing With Weight Gain on Lamictal XR
If you are noticing unexplained or bothersome weight gain while taking Lamictal XR, there are some things that you can do. Some suggestions include:
- Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet. This diet should include:
- Lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products (heart-healthy foods)
- Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
- Limited amounts of foods containing saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
- Limit your intake of alcohol.
Also, if you are noticing a weight gain with Lamictal XR, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can suggest other ways for dealing with this problem. Your healthcare provider may also look for other causes of weight gain, such as certain medical conditions. If the problem continues, he or she may recommend other lifestyle changes or possibly switching to another
epilepsy medication.
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
