Lamictal - Lamotrigine

What is it?

Composition

Lamictal contains the active substance lamotrigine, which is a phenyltriazine derivative. The main function of this component is to inhibit the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in the conduction of excitatory signals in the brain. Excipients that may be part of the drug depending on the release form include:

• lactose monohydrate,
• starch,
• microcrystalline cellulose,
• magnesium stearate,
• croscarmellose sodium.

These components may vary depending on the form of the drug, whether it is a tablet with a regular, chewable or prolonged action.

How to use?

Taking Lamictal depends on the condition it is prescribed for and the individual patient. It is important to strictly follow your doctors instructions and not to change the dosage on your own. The following steps are usually recommended:

1. The initial dosage may be low and gradually increased to reduce the risk of side effects such as skin rash.
2. The drug is taken once or twice a day, depending on the prescription. Tablets can be taken regardless of food.
3. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

It is important to remember that Lamictal should be taken regularly, even if you feel well. Stopping the drug should be done under the supervision of a doctor to avoid possible worsening of symptoms

How does it work?

Lamictal acts as a mood stabilizer and anticonvulsant, making it effective in the treatment of both epilepsy and bipolar disorder. The main mechanism of action of lamotrigine is to block sodium channels in the membranes of nerve cells. This prevents the neurons from becoming overactive, thereby reducing the likelihood of seizures. In the case of bipolar disorder, Lamictal helps stabilize mood by preventing the overactivation or suppression of nerve cells, which reduces the risk of manic or depressive episodes.

This action at the brain level makes the drug especially valuable for patients who need to control frequent and abrupt mood changes or seizures, thereby providing a stable state and improving quality of life.

Indications

Lamictal is prescribed for a variety of conditions associated with impaired brain activity and mood changes. The main indications for use include:

• Treatment of epilepsy, including partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures, as well as seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
• Maintenance therapy in bipolar disorder to prevent episodes of mania and depression.
• Prevention of relapses of depression in patients with bipolar disorder.

Lamictal is effective both as monotherapy and in combination with other antiepileptic drugs, making it a versatile drug for controlling various types of seizures and stabilizing mood.

Contraindications

Lamictal is contraindicated in a number of cases where its use may cause serious side effects or worsen the patients condition. The main contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to lamotrigine or any of the components of the drug, which can lead to the development of life-threatening reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
• Severe liver dysfunction, since lamotrigine is metabolized primarily in the liver.
• The period of breastfeeding, since lamotrigine can penetrate into breast milk and affect the baby.

Before starting treatment, it is important to discuss all possible risks with your doctor and make sure there are no contraindications.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Lamictal can cause side effects, some of which require immediate medical attention. The most common side effects include:

• Headaches and dizziness, which may occur especially at the beginning of treatment.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Drowsiness or fatigue, which may reduce activity during the day.
• Rashes and other skin reactions, which can range from mild to severe, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
• Blurred or double vision.

Any new or worsening symptoms, especially skin rashes or allergic reactions, should be immediately reported to a doctor.