Lamictal DC (Lamotrigine)

Do’s

• Before starting Lamictal DC and each time you get a refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If available, also read the Patient Information Leaflet.
• Lamictal DC is taken orally, with or without food, according to your healthcare provider's instructions.
• The tablets may be swallowed whole, chewed, or mixed in water or fruit juice. 
• If you chew the tablets, drink a small amount of water or juice to ensure you swallow all of the medication. 
• To disperse the tablets, add your prescribed dose to a small amount of liquid (enough to cover the medication) in a glass or spoon. Wait for approximately 1 minute until the tablets are completely dissolved, stir, and then drink the entire mixture immediately. Use only whole tablets.
• The dosage of Lamictal DC is determined by your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. In the case of children, the dosage may also be based on their weight.
• Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions precisely. The dose of Lamictal DC needs to be increased gradually. It may take several weeks or months to reach the optimal dose for you and to obtain the full benefit of the medication. Take Lamictal DC regularly at the same time(s) each day to help you remember.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens while taking Lamictal DC.

Don’ts

• Do not use partial tablets.
• Do not stop taking Lamictal DC without consulting your healthcae provider first. Suddenly stopping the medication can worsen certain conditions. If you and your healthcare provider decide to discontinue Lamictal DC, the dose may need to be gradually decreased. If you have stopped taking the medication, do not restart it without consulting your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred or double vision
• Rash

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing)
• Mood or behavior changes (e.g., depression, anxiety, agitation, suicidal thoughts)
• Signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat)
• Signs of liver problems (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the serious side effects occur. 

Additionally,  seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Lamictal DC.

Lamictal DC may interact with other medications, potentially causing adverse effects or reducing the effectiveness of either medication. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

If a decision is made to discontinue therapy with Lamictal DC, the dose should be gradually reduced over at least 2 weeks, unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal. Abrupt withdrawal of Lamictal DC may increase the risk of seizures.

Lamictal DC may cause a severe or life-threatening skin rash, especially in children and in people who take a very high starting dose or those who also take valproic acid or divalproex. Seek emergency medical attention if you develop a skin rash, hives, blistering, peeling, or sores in your mouth or around your eyes.

Lamictal DC may interfere with certain lab tests, such as urine drug screening tests, potentially causing false test results. Inform lab personnel and all your healthcare providers that you are taking this medication.

Lamictal DC may have risks associated with its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

Lamictal DC can cause a rare but serious immune system reaction that excessively activates the body's infection-fighting immune system. This can lead to severe inflammation throughout the body and may require hospitalization and prompt treatment. Be aware of this risk and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, or other signs of an allergic reaction.

This is not an exhaustive list of all warnings and precautions associated with Lamictal DC. Consult with your healthcare provider or refer to the prescribing information for a comprehensive understanding of the risks and precautions associated with this medication.