Lamictal (Lamotrigine Tablets)

Lamictal (Lamotrigine Tablets)

Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline as Lamictal (Lamotrigine Tablets), the drug contains lamotrigine which is an anticonvulsant drug used for treating bipolar disorder and epilepsy. Partial seizures, primary and secondary tonic – clonic seizures and seizures related to Lennox – Gastaut syndrome are treated for epilepsy.

Lamictal (Lamotrigine Tablets) is available in the form of tablets, chewable dispersible tablets and orally disintegrating tablets (ODT). The dosage strengths in the first category includes 25 mg white tablets, 100 mg peach colored ones, 150 mg cream colored ones and 200 mg blue colored tablets that are all shield shaped. In the second category, 2 mg off round tablets, 5 mg white caplet shaped and 25 mg super elliptical shaped tablets are available. The ODTs are available in the range of 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg.

Dosage

a.) Typical Dosage Recommendations

The recommended dose of Lamictal depends upon other similar medications you may be taking. If the drug is taken as a monotherapy in young adults, the beginning dose will be 25 mg every day that can be increased for every two weeks by another 25 mg every day. A dose of 100 mg to 200 mg a day is also recommended depending on its condition. When a hepatic enzyme is taken along with Lamictal, the drug is begun at 25 mg twice a day followed by an increase of 50 mg every day reaching a target dose of 300 mg to 500 mg every day.

Patients who are over 65 years of age are recommended a low initial and as well as low maintenance dose. The drug is usually titrated (i.e.) increased slowly until you reach the dose that works well for you.

b.) Missing a Dose

If you have missed a dose of Lamictal, take it whenever you remember but if it is time for your next dose, then avoid taking the skipped one. Extra doses should not be taken to compensate for missed ones.

c.) Overdosing

Calling the Poison Helpline or getting medical attention immediately can be done if you think you have been overdosed. Overdosing symptoms include fainting, lightheadedness, increased seizures, co-ordination problems and blurred vision.