What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Lamictal XR (Lamotrigine)
Prescription Required
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Related Products & Conditions
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Product Details
Description
Lamictal XR is a medication used to treat different seizure disorders including:
- Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures
- Partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization in patients 13 years and older
Seizure disorders are conditions where the cells of the brain start generating abnormal electrical activity that causes neurological symptoms. Symptoms can include:
- Jerking movements of the arms and legs
- Stiffening of the body
- Loss of bladder control
- Staring
- Loss of consciousness
Fact Table
Formula
C9H7Cl2N5
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
98%
Legal status
Rx-only
Chemical Name
Lamotrigine
Elimination half-life
29 hours
Dosage (Strength)
50mg to 300mg
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Brands
Lamictal
Protein binding
55%
PubChem CID
3878
MedlinePlus
a695007
ChEBI
6367
ATC code
N03AX09
DrugBank
DB00555
KEGG
D00354
Routes of administration
By mouth
Directions
Your healthcare provider will determine the correct dosage of this drug. Do not change the dosage without speaking with your healthcare team first.
The dosage can range from 25-600 mg by mouth once daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Lamictal XR is lamotrigine, which is also the name for generic Lamictal XR.
Interactions
Common drug-drug interactions with this medication may include:
- Antiepileptic Agents
- Azelastine
- Bromperidol
- Buprenorphine
- Carbamazepine
- Chlormethiazole
- Dofetilide
- Estrogen Derivatives
- Flunitrazepam
- Lopinavir
- Mefloquine
- Opioid Agonists
- Orphenadrine
- Oxomemazine
- Oxybate Salt Products
- Oxycodone
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Primidone
- Rifampin
- Thalidomide
- Topiramate
- Valproate Products
- Zolpidem
- Zonisamide
Cautions
Once you buy Lamictal XR and begin taking this medication, tell your doctor immediately if you develop a rash.
Your doctor should monitor your blood cell labs while you are taking this drug.
Use caution if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
This is not a complete list of precautions.
Side Effects
If you plan to buy Lamictal XRside effects can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Abnormal dreams
- Abnormal thinking
- Agitation
- Alcohol intolerance
- Amnesia
- Anorexia
- Anxiety
- Arthralgia
- Ataxia
- Bronchitis
- Chest pain
- Constipation
- Contact dermatitis
- Cough
- Diaphoresis
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dysmenorrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Dyspepsia
- Edema
- Epistaxis
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Flatulence
- Increased libido
- Infection
- Insomnia
- Pain
- Peptic ulcer
- Peripheral edema
- Rectal Hemorrhage
- Skin rash
- Suicidal ideation
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Urinary Frequency
- Visual disturbance
- Vomiting
- Weight gain
- Weight loss
- Xeroderma
- Xerostomia
References
Lamictal XR [package insert]. Research Triangle Park, NC: GlaxoSmithKline; 2015.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lamictal XR
What is Lamictal XR, and what is it used for?
Lamictal XR is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Lamotrigine. It is primarily used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It can help control seizures in epilepsy and stabilize mood in bipolar disorder.
How does Lamictal XR work?
Lamictal XR works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. It does this by modulating the release of certain neurotransmitters. This helps reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in epilepsy and can help prevent mood swings in bipolar disorder.
What is the difference between Lamictal and Lamictal XR?
Lamictal XR is an extended-release formulation of Lamotrigine. This means that it releases the medication slowly over time, providing a more consistent blood level of the drug. The regular Lamictal tablets are immediate-release and may require more frequent dosing.
How is Lamictal XR dosed?
The dosing of Lamictal XR depends on the condition being treated and individual factors. Typically, the dosage is gradually increased to find the most effective dose while minimizing side effects. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
What are the common side effects of Lamictal XR?
Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and insomnia. It is important to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider.
Are there any serious side effects or risks associated with Lamictal XR?
Yes, there are some serious side effects and risks associated with Lamictal XR. These can include severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), blood disorders, and mood changes, including an increased risk of suicidal thoughts. It is crucial to notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects.
Can Lamictal XR be taken with other medications?
Lamictal XR can interact with other medications, so it's essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking. Some drug interactions can affect the effectiveness of Lamictal XR or increase the risk of side effects.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Lamictal XR?
Alcohol can interact with Lamictal XR and may increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness. It's best to consult with your healthcare provider about alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Can I stop taking Lamictal XR suddenly?
It is generally not recommended to stop taking Lamictal XR suddenly, as it may lead to an increased risk of seizures or mood swings. If you and your healthcare provider decide to discontinue the medication, it should be done gradually under medical supervision.
How long does it take for Lamictal XR to start working?
The time it takes for Lamictal XR to become effective can vary from person to person. It may take several weeks to reach the full therapeutic effect. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust the dosage as needed.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 10226
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