OverviewDosageSide EffectsInteractionsHalf-Life

People may be prescribed lamotrigine (Lamictal) for bipolar disorder. This medication can be used as a mood stabilizer.

Dosage

Dosage for lamotrigine will typically be 25mg daily for the first two weeks. Then the dosage will increase to 50mg for week 3 and week 4.  Afterward, the dosage amounts will be at 100mg for week 5 and 200mg for weeks 6 and longer. Always follow your doctor’s dosing schedule, as dosing may differ from patient to patient.

Side Effects

  • dizziness
  • stomach problems
  • headache
  • nausea
  • blurred vision
  • diplopia

FAQ

How does lamotrigine work for bipolar?

Lamotrigine helps to reduce the cycle of mood swings for people who have bipolar disorder. The medication extends the time cycle, offering a person longer periods of time when they do not swing from being depressed to having manic episodes.

Can Lamictal make bipolar worse?

No. There are no studies which indicate that Lamictal makes bipolar worse.

How long does it take for lamotrigine to work for bipolar?

It may take up to six weeks for lamotrigine to work for bipolar episodes. This time frame may be lengthened or shortened depending on if the person is taking other types of medications that impact lamotrigine’s effectiveness.

What is the best mood stabilizer for bipolar?

Lamotrigine has been found as one of the best mood stabilizers for people suffering from depression caused by bipolar disorder, but this may not be true for everyone. Other top mood stabilizers include lithium, quetiapine, and lurasidone.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


More about Lamotrigine

Written by

Fact Checked by