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Lamotrigine

Updated on : August - 2012
Latest prescription information about Lamotrigine. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Lamotrigine
Pronunciation : la-MOE-tri-jeen
Therapeutic Classification : Anticonvulsants
ICD Code : Y46.6
Trade Name(s): 
India- Epitic Tab, Favlam Tab, Lamepil Tab, Lamepril Mr Tab, Lametec Dispertab, Lametec Tab, Lamidus Dispertab, Lamitor Dt Tab, Lamitor Od Tab, Lamogin Dispertab, Lamorig Tab, Lamosyn Tab , Lemogen Tab, Sylam.
International- Lamictal , Lamictal XR .
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is an anticonvulsant agent, prescribed for epilepsy and bipolar disorder either alone or combined with other medications. In epilepsy it is used for partial seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and generalized seizures of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It stabilizes electrical activity in the brain. 
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 
Hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : 
The dose varies depending on the age of the patient and whether he/she takes any other medications for seizures.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food.
Warnings and Precautions : 
*Patient may develop Multiorgan Hypersensitivity Reactions, Organ Failure, suicidal thoughts with symptoms of panic attacks, agitation or restlessness, new or worsening irritability, anxiety, depression, acting on dangerous impulses, difficulty falling or staying asleep, aggressive, angry, or violent behavior, if it so, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.
* It may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid abrupt withdrawal unless severe skin reactions have developed.
* Monitor body weight of patients (especially children) who are taking this medication.
* It may cause liver or kidney damage.
* Caution needed for elderly, liver or kidney impairment, Parkinson’s disease, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Side Effects : 
Most Common- Adult: Rash, dizziness, headache, lack of coordination, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, drowsiness, and nose inflammation.
Children: Vomiting, infection, fever, accidental injury, inflammation of pharynx, abdominal pain and tremor.
Body as Whole- Fever, abdominal pain and neck pain.
Gastrointestinal- Diarrhea, indigestion, constipation and loss of appetite.
Musculoskeletal- Joint/muscle pain.
Eye- Double vision.
Genitourinary- Painful menstruation, inflammation of vagina and absence of menstrual period.
Potentially Fatal- Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Other Precautions : 
*Patient may develop with life threatening allergic reactions.
* It could cause decrease in blood counts.
Storage Conditions : 
Oral: Store below 30°C. Store it at room temperature. Keep this medication in an airtight container, and out of reach of children.
♦ Safety Labeling Changes Approved By FDA

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Reference  

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • PubMed
  • CIMS
  • Indian Pharma Reference Guide 2012
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