CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Generic "Lamictal" is an anticonvulsant that is chemically unrelated to any other anticonvulsant or mood regulating medication. The precise mechanism(s) by which Generic "Lamictal" exerts its anticonvulsant action are unknown. In animal models designed to detect anticonvulsant activity, Generic "Lamictal" was effective in preventing seizure spread in the maximum electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazol (scMet) tests, and prevented seizures in the visually and electrically evoked after-discharge (EEAD) tests for antiepileptic activity. Generic "Lamictal" also displayed inhibitory 3 properties in the kindling model in rats both during kindling development and in the fully kindled state. The relevance of these models to human epilepsy, however, is not known. One proposed mechanism of action of Generic "Lamictal", the relevance of which remains to be established in humans, involves an effect on sodium channels. In vitro pharmacological studies suggest that Generic "Generic "Lamictal" inhibits voltage-sensitive sodium channels, thereby stabilizing neuronal membranes and consequently modulating presynaptic transmitter release of excitatory amino acids (e.g., glutamate and aspartate). The mechanisms by which Generic "Lamictal" exerts its therapeutic action in Bipolar Disorder have not been established.
Active Ingredients: lamotrigine.
Other Ingredients: lactose; magnesium stearate; microcrystalline cellulose; povidone; sodium starch glycolate; FD&C Yellow No. 6 Lake.
What is Generic "Lamictal" PRESCRIBED for?
Generic "Lamictal" is indicated for the maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder to delay the time to occurrence of mood episodes (depression, mania, hypomania, mixed episodes) in adults treated for acute mood episodes with standard therapy. The effectiveness of Generic "Lamictal" in the acute treatment of mood episodes has not been established. Generic "Lamictal" is indicated as adjunctive therapy for partial seizures, the generalized seizures of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adult and pediatric patients (=2 years of age); and for conversion to monotherapy in adults with partial seizures who are receiving treatment with carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or valproate as the single AED.
How should I take Generic "Lamictal"?
When used as an antidepressant or as a mood-stabilizing agent the final dose of Generic "Lamictal" is most often between 100 and 200 mg/day. Some people require doses as high as 600 mg/day to achieve a good antidepressant effect. Such doses should be avoided in patients taking valproate because of the pharmacokinetic effect of valproate that increases plasma levels of Generic "Lamictal", and the accompanying increased risk of serious dermatological side effects.
STORAGE Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What are the CONTRADICTIONS for taking Generic "Lamictal"?
Generic "Lamictal" is contraindicated to persons that are allergic to this medicine or to any of its component as well as to other medications.
Generic "Lamictal"is contraindicated to pregnant women. Netherless it is necessary discuss with your health care professional before taken this medicine.
Generic "Lamictal"passes into breast milk, therefore it is not recommended to women that are breastfeding a baby.
Generic "Lamictal" is contraindicated to persons that are using female hormonal medications such as hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, patches, rings, injections, implants, or intrauterine devices), or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Your health care professional should be informed if you have ever had heart, kidney, or liver disease or a blood disorder.
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, delay that dose for a few hours, instead of taking two doses very close together. Then go back to the regular schedule.
What Happens if I OVERDOSE?
In case of overdose seek emergency medical treatment. Symptoms of a Generic "Lamictal" overdose include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, increased seizures, and unconsciousness
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Generic "Lamictal"?
In rare cases, Generic "Lamictal" has been associated with severe and/or life-threatening rashes and hypersensitivity reactions.
Seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you develop any
- skin rash
- fever
- hives
- swelling of the lips
- tongue, or face
- sores in the mouth or around the eyes
- swollen lymph glands.
Seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you experience increasing frequency or worsening of seizures during treatment with Generic "Lamictal".
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Generic "Lamictal" and talk to your doctor if you experience:
- dizziness or drowsiness;
- blurred or double vision;
- nausea and vomiting;
- headache; or
- lack of coordination.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs can INTERACT with Generic "Glucotrol XL"?
Generic "Lamictal" interacts with many other drugs used to treat seizures. Before taking Generic "Lamictal", tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking Generic "Lamictal" alone or with other medications to treat seizures. Continue to take all medications prescribed to treat seizures exactly as directed.
Birth control pills may decrease the amount of Generic "Lamictal" in the body. A dosage adjustment may be necessary if birth control pills are started or stopped during treatment with Generic "Lamictal".
Generic "Lamictal" may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Generic "Lamictal" is taken with any of these medications.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Generic "Lamictal". Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
Additional Information
Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform other hazardous activities until you know how Generic "Lamictal" affects you. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.
Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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