Lamotrigine Chewable tablet Health Article

Generic name(s):

Lamotrigine Chewable tablet

Brand name(s):

Lamictal, Lamictal Blue, Lamictal Green, Lamictal Orange

What is this medicine?

LAMOTRIGINE (la MOE tri jeen) is used to control seizures in adults and children with epilepsy and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It is also used in adults to treat bipolar disorder.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• a history of depression or bipolar disorder
• folate deficiency
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
• an unusual or allergic reaction to lamotrigine or other seizure medications, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. These tablets may be swallowed whole, chewed, mixed in water, or diluted in fruit juice to aid swallowing. Follow the directions on the prescription label. To mix the tablets in water or juice, add the tablets to a small amount of liquid (1 teaspoon or enough to cover the medicine) in a glass or spoon. The tablets will dissolve in about 1 minute. Once dissolved, mix or swirl the liquid and take the entire solution immediately. It is important that you swallow all of the liquid used to prepare the dose, so that the full prescribed dose is given. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each new prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• carbamazepine
• female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
• methotrexate
• phenobarbital
• phenytoin
• primidone
• pyrimethamine
• rifampin
• trimethoprim
• valproic acid

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.