Reader Question on Lamictal (lamotrigine) Side Effects

Lamictal is a mood stabilizer used to treat bipolar disorder depression.

The generic name is lamotrigine.  The basic dose is 200 mg, though the dose can vary greatly depending on the person. It usually has very low side effects, but there can certainly be some that interfere with life! Here is a question from a reader (Jon) about Lamictal side effects.

Hi Julie,

I’m taking 800mg of lamictal a day for epilepsy, and Ive had a problem with my throat for the past 2 years (almost since Ive been on the medicine. Primarily continual clearing of my throat and a sensation of something stuck in the back of my throat. Ive seen tons of drs, checked me for all nasal and stomach issues, all to no avail. My last dr said it could be some type of tic, but I wasn’t sure. Has anyone else heard of something like this? Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!!! And thank you all for sharing your stories.  Jon

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Hi Jon, this is a normal side effect of Lamictal. I’ve noticed a lot of side effects that affect the head area. Neck pain and twitches, itchy face, yawning, trouble breathing, trouble catching your breath. It’s a great drug (in terms of having to take meds)- and it usually has few side effects. 800 is a LOT of Lamictal. I take 700 and that is also high. These doses are not studied in terms of bipolar disorder. So these side effects are not well documented. I’ve been on it since 2005 and if I go off it, my depression is quick. I wish I could have stayed on a lower dose, but it stopped working. The 700 has helped for a few years. I don’t think I will go up with it. I would rather add something than risk going higher.

Another thing to get checked. An ear, nose and throat doctor can check for cysts on the thyroid. This doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with the thyroid- they are very common- but I often feel there is something stuck in my throat.

Spreading out your doses can help.

And finally, is it there all of the time? Or does it come and go? Or…. does it start when you take the meds.

Regular medicine rarely understands the side effects we go through- they are so odd! Who would think a medication could cause constant yawning!

Hope this helps!

Julie

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Lamictal Side Effects: Reader Question
Bipolar Meds: Lamictal (Lamotrigine) side effects