Lamotrigine
Lamictal (lamotrigine) is a prescription anticonvulsant medication used primarily to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain to reduce seizures and manage mood episodes.
Lamictal is an anticonvulsant used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder that works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 196502
- Generic
- Lamictal
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Lamictal is FDA-approved for treating partial seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in both adults and children. It is also used as maintenance treatment for bipolar I disorder to delay the occurrence of mood episodes including depression and mania.
Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant that works by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels, which stabilizes neuronal membranes and inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate. This action prevents excessive electrical discharges in the brain that cause seizures and may also help regulate mood.
Lamictal can cause serious and potentially life-threatening skin rashes, particularly Stevens-Johnson syndrome, especially during the first 2-8 weeks of treatment. The dose must be increased very gradually according to a titration schedule to minimize this risk. Do not stop taking Lamictal abruptly without medical supervision. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as many drugs interact with lamotrigine, including hormonal contraceptives and anti-epileptic medications. Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and nausea.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy