Lamictal Drug Interactions

Problems can occur if Lamictal is taken with birth control pills, rifampin, or certain other medications. For example, these interactions can increase the risk of side effects and increase or decrease drug levels in the body. To minimize the risk of interactions with Lamictal, be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.

An Overview of Interactions With Lamictal

Lamictal^® (lamotrigine) can potentially interact with a few other medications. Some of the medicines that may lead to Lamictal interactions include:

Carbamazepine (Carbatrol^®, Epitol^®, Equetro^®, Tegretol^®)
Divalproex (Depakote^®, Depakote ER^®) or valproic acid (Depakene^®)
Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Phenobarbital (Luminal^®)
Phenytoin (Dilantin^®, Phenytek^®)
Primidone (Mysoline^®)
Rifampin (Rifadin^®).

Lamictal Drug Interactions Explained

The following sections explain in detail the potentially negative interactions that can occur when Lamictal is combined with any of the drugs listed above.

Carbamazepine

Carbamazepine can decrease the level of Lamictal in your blood, perhaps making it less effective. Your healthcare provider may recommend a higher Lamictal dosage if you are taking carbamazepine. In addition, using these medications together may increase your risk of certain Lamictal side effects, such as dizziness, vision problems, or coordination problems.

Divalproex or Valproic Acid

Divalproex or valproic acid can increase the level of Lamictal in your blood, potentially increasing your risk of side effects. Taking these medications together can increase your risk of a life-threatening skin rash (see Lamictal Rash). Your healthcare provider will recommend a lower dose of Lamictal if you are taking divalproex or valproic acid.

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