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Lamotrigine Chewable Tablet (LAMOTRIGINE CHEWABLE/DISPERSIBLE TABLET - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • bipolar disorder
  • pain
  • seizures

Brand Name(s): Lamictal

Generic Name: Lamotrigine

Instructions

Chew the pill and then drink some water or juice to help swallow the medicine.

The tablet may be dissolved in a small amount of water or juice (about 1 teaspoon or just enough to cover the tablet). Stir and drink the mixture as soon as the tablet is dissolved.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

This medicine may decrease the effectiveness of some birth controls which use hormones (such as birth control pills and patches). Use an extra form of birth control, such as condoms, while on this medicine.

It is very important that you follow your doctor's instructions for all blood tests.

Do not take the medicine more than twice during 24 hours.

Cautions

This medicine is not approved for use in children younger than 2.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • blurry vision
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • shakiness
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • change in behavior
  • bleeding or bruising
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • confusion
  • depression or feeling sad
  • fainting
  • fever
  • flu-like symptoms
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • kidney problems
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • symptoms of meningitis which include headache, stiff neck, fever, and sensitivity to light
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • muscle pain or weakness
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • suicidal thoughts

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.