If you're concerned that taking the medication Lamictal (lamotrigine) may cause you to gain weight, there's good news. It probably won't affect your weight much at all. If anything, you're more likely to lose weight because of Lamictal than to gain weight, but either way, the changes will probably be pretty small.Sep 17, 2020
Does Lamictal affect metabolism?
Lamotrigine metabolism also exhibits the phenomenon of “autoinduction” (increase in its own metabolism during the course of therapy) [104], similar to the first-generation AED carbamazepine, with an approximately 20% reduction in steady-state serum/plasma concentrations if dosage is not escalated.
How can I avoid gaining weight on mood stabilizers?
As simple as it may sound, the best chance of avoiding, or lessening further, undesirable weight gain when taking a prescribed antidepressant or antipsychotic medication, is to simultaneously participate in a formal weight management program.Dec 3, 2021
What is a serious adverse effect of lamotrigine?
Serious side effects of Lamictal you should report to your doctor include: rash, worsening depression or suicidal thoughts, and. flu-like symptoms such as body aches or swollen glands.
What should I avoid while taking lamotrigine?
Avoid drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs while you are taking lamotrigine. They may decrease the benefits (e.g., worsen your condition) and increase adverse effects (e.g., sedation) of the medication.
Why is lamotrigine bad?
Lamotrigine may cause serious allergic reactions affecting multiple body organs (eg, liver or kidney). Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have the following symptoms: fever, dark urine, headache, hives, muscle pain or stiffness, stomach pain, unusual tiredness, or yellow eyes or skin.Jun 1, 2021
How is lamotrigine supposed to make you feel?
Lamotrigine may make you feel very drowsy or sleepy when you start taking it. It may also make it difficult for you to get to sleep. If these symptoms carry on for a long time, or if this is difficult for you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other medicines you could take.
How is lamotrigine metabolism?
Lamotrigine is inactivated by glucuronidation in the liver. Lamotrigine is metabolized predominantly by glucuronic acid conjugation. Its major metabolite is an inactive 2-n-glucuronide conjugate.
Does Lamotrigine give you energy?
Lamotrigine 25 mg/day was added at bedtime and increased by 25 mg after 2 weeks. However, after 2 weeks, he reported restlessness, decreased need for sleep (5 h/day), improved mood, increased energy, and distractibility.
Which bipolar medications do not cause weight gain?
Most bipolar drugs cause weight gain rather than weight loss. For example, several of them increase your blood sugar level, which can lead to weight gain. Others affect your energy level. During manic episodes, you typically may not sleep much and may burn off lots of energy.
What bipolar medication has the least amount of side effects?
Lurasidone (Latuda) and Lamotrigine (Lamictal) But lamotrigine is the better tolerated option, with few of the adverse effects that matter most to patients: weight gain, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, and long-term medical risks.May 13, 2020