Lamictal XR (Lamotrigine Xr)

Do’s

• Take Lamictal XR exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily with or without food.
• Your healthcare provider might start you on a low dose and gradually increase it over time to minimize side effects.
• Take Lamictal XR consistently, at the same time each day, to maintain a steady level of medication in your body.
• Be aware that it may take several weeks or months to experience the full benefits of Lamictal XR.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid getting too little sleep, as this can worsen seizures.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and herbal products you take, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, to avoid potential interactions.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you experience a rash, especially if it starts within the first few weeks of taking Lamictal XR, as this can be a serious side effect.

Don'ts

• Do not crush, chew, or break them. Swallow the tablets whole. 
• Don't take more or less Lamictal XR than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip or stop taking Lamictal XR without consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you are taking it for epilepsy. Stopping Lamictal XR suddenly can increase your risk of seizures.
• Don't take Lamictal XR with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase the amount of Lamictal XR in your body and lead to side effects.
• Don't drink excessive amounts of alcohol while taking Lamictal XR, as alcohol can worsen some side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Sleepiness
• Runny nose
• Rash

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the face or throat
• Severe skin reactions, including fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, or a red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling
• Mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, agitation, hostility, restlessness, hyperactivity (mentally or physically), or thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• Serious allergic reactions, including rash-related death or life-threatening rashes such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Low blood cell levels, which may cause symptoms such as pale skin, tiredness, or shortness of breath
• Serious eye symptoms, such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Lamictal xr,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, including allergies to lamotrigine or other medications.

Your medical history, especially if you have:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Heart problems (irregular heartbeat, heart block, heart failure)

Lamictal XR may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you know how it affects you.

Be cautious about consuming alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) as they can worsen these effects.

There's an increased risk of skin rashes in children taking Lamictal XR. Refer to the package insert's Warning section for details.

Lamictal XR may increase dizziness, loss of coordination, or fainting in older adults, raising the risk of falls.

Lamictal XR should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Lamictal XR passes into breast milk and may harm your baby. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking Lamictal XR.