Anti-seizurePrescription only

Lamotrigine

Tablet

Quick Summary

Lamotrigine reduces abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Epilepsy

Bipolar disorder

Medical Uses

Epilepsy: Seizure control.

Bipolar disorder: As prescribed.

How it's taken

Take at the same times each day. The dose is increased slowly.

Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.

Common Side Effects

Rash

Report any rash.

Headache

Sometimes.

Dizziness

Sometimes.

Interactions

Valproate

Raises levels.

Birth control pills

Lower levels.

Critical Warnings

Severe rash

Black Box Warning: Stop and seek urgent help for rash with fever or blisters.

Don't stop suddenly

Can cause seizures.

Thoughts of self-harm

Black Box Warning: Get help immediately: call 112 or Tele-MANAS (14416).

Drowsiness

Don't drive or use machines if it makes you sleepy, and avoid alcohol.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.

Lamotrigine: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
Lamotrigine: medicine to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder(opens in a new tab) · NHS