Lamictal® XR™ (
extended-release lamotrigine) is a prescription medication approved to treat a certain type of
seizure -- known as partial-onset
seizure, partial seizure, or focal seizure -- in people age 13 years and older. It is approved for use only in combination with other seizure medications.
Lamictal XR is made by GlaxoSmithKline.
Seizures are the result of brief changes in how the brain's electrical system works. It is not known exactly how Lamictal XR works to treat seizures. Studies suggest that the medication may work by affecting sodium channels in the brain, preventing the abnormal activity from "firing" and spreading to other parts of the brain. This action helps control seizures.
Clinical Effects of Lamictal XR
This medicine has been thoroughly evaluated in clinical studies. These studies evaluated Lamictal XR in people with partial-onset seizures whose seizures were not adequately controlled with their current medications.
In one study, adding Lamictal XR significantly reduced seizure frequency by up to 47 percent, compared to only 25 percent who were given a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients) in addition to their regular seizure medications.
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking
Lamictal XR include the following:
- Lamictal XR comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth just once a day.
- This medication can be taken with or without food.
- The tablets must be swallowed whole; do not cut, crush, or chew them. Do not take any tablets that have been damaged in any way.
- For this drug to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Lamictal XR will not work if you stop taking it.
- As with other seizure medications, do not stop taking Lamictal XR without your healthcare provider's approval.
The dose of Lamictal XR your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
Side Effects of Lamictal XR
Just like any medicine, Lamictal XR may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
Some of the most common side effects seen with Lamictal XR include but are not limited to:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Diarrhea
- Nausea.
(Click Lamictal XR Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking It?
Prior to taking Lamictal XR, talk to your healthcare provider if you have:
- Depression or a history of suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Liver disease, such as liver failure or cirrhosis
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- A blood disorder
- Any allergies, including to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medications you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Overdose on Lamictal XR?
People who take too much Lamictal XR may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Coordination problems
- Involuntary eye movements
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness or coma
- Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Loss of life.
If you happen to overdose on this drug, seek medical attention right away.
Lamictal XR should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all medications out of reach of children and pets.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Lamictal XR?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the one you missed and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
If you miss several doses in a row, contact your healthcare provider for further instructions. In some situations, your healthcare provider may recommend restarting Lamictal XR at a low dose and slowly working up to your normal dose, as was done when you first started taking this medication.
Lamictal XR tablets come in the following strengths:
- Lamictal XR 25 mg
- Lamictal XR 50 mg
- Lamictal XR 100 mg
- Lamictal XR 200 mg.
Can I Buy Generic Lamictal XR?
Currently, Lamictal XR is not available in generic form
(see Generic Lamictal XR for more information).
