What it is used for

Epilepsy, including focal and generalised seizures
Preventing depressive episodes in bipolar disorder

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Borderline personality disorder, for mood swings (limited evidence)
Some types of nerve pain

How it works

Lamotrigine blocks sodium channels on nerve cells and reduces the release of glutamate, a chemical messenger that excites nerves. This calms overactive brain activity.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Lamotrigine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

headache
skin rash
feeling dizzy or unsteady
feeling sick
feeling tired
trouble sleeping
double or blurred vision

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

any skin rash, especially with a high temperature, sore mouth, blisters or peeling. Get help straight away
unusual bruising or bleeding, or a sore throat with high temperature
thoughts of harming yourself

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

The dose must be increased slowly when starting, to lower the risk of a serious skin rash.
Hormonal contraception and valproate change lamotrigine levels. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose.
Talk to your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy. Do not stop it suddenly.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.