Lamictal

If you're taking Lamictal for bipolar disorder, be aware that the drug should not be used to stop an episode of mania or depression once it has started.

There are no clinical studies to prove the safety and effectiveness of Lamictal for treating bipolar disorder in children less than 18 years old.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Lamictal

If Lamictal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lamictal with the following:

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Drugs that inhibit folate metabolism, such as methotrexate and Septra
Oral contraceptives
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Primidone (Mysoline)
Valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Lamictal during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Lamictal should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Lamictal appears in breast milk. Because the effects of Lamictal on an infant exposed to this medication are unknown, breastfeeding is not recommended.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

For Seizures

Lamictal combined with Tegretol, Dilantin, Phenobarbital, or Mysoline

One 50-milligram dose per day for 2 weeks, then two 50-milligram doses per day, for 2 weeks. After that, your doctor will have you take a total of 300 milligrams to 500 milligrams a day, divided into 2 doses.

Lamictal combined with Depakene or Depakote, whether taken alone or with any of the above medications

One 25-milligram dose every other day for 2 weeks, then 25 milligrams once a day for 2 weeks. After that, the doctor will prescribe a total of 100 milligrams to 400 milligrams a day, taken in 1 or 2 doses.

Lamictal as a replacement for Tegretol, Dilantin, Phenobarbital, Mysoline, or Valproate

While you continue to take Tegretol, Dilantin, phenobarbital, or Mysoline, your doctor will add Lamictal, starting at a dose of 50 milligrams per day, then gradually increasing the daily dose. Once you've reached a dosage of 500 milligrams per day divided into 2 doses, the doctor will then begin gradually reducing the dosage of the other drug until, after 4 weeks, it has been completely eliminated. If you're switching from valproate, your doctor will have you follow a slightly different regimen.