Lamotrigine
Also known as: Lamictal
What it's for
Lamotrigine treats epilepsy and prevents low mood episodes in bipolar disorder. It stabilises electrical activity in the brain.
Comes as: Tablets or dispersible tablets
How to take it
- Dose must be increased very slowly over weeks.
- Usually start with 25mg daily for 2 weeks, then gradually increase.
- Take at the same time each day.
- Can be taken with or without food.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Feeling sick
- Skin rash (important - see warnings)
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Dose must be increased slowly to reduce risk of serious rash
- Stop and see a doctor immediately if you get any rash
- Tell your doctor if you take valproate - dose will be different
- May reduce effectiveness of contraceptive pill
Get medical help urgently if…
- You develop any skin rash - stop taking and see a doctor immediately
- You have a high temperature with a rash
- You have mouth ulcers or flu-like symptoms with a rash
- You have yellowing of skin or eyes
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.