Lamotrigine information sheet

Lamotrigine must be prescribed by a doctor. You should never give your child anyone else's medications.  

Care must be taken when combining Lamotrigine with Sodium Valproate. 

Your doctor will check and make sure that other drugs your child is taking are compatible with Lamotrigine. This is also important if you are giving your child herbal or complementary medicines. The doctor can check to make sure they are compatible. 

Monitoring and Levels 

No blood monitoring is required.  If you have any questions please ask your doctor. 

• If your child vomits within 30 minutes after having their dose, then repeat the dose.
• If it is longer than 30 minutes since having the dose you do not need to repeat the dose, but if vomiting or diarrhoea continues, seek medical help.

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered.
• The next due dose should be taken at the usual time.
• However, if the missed dose is remembered in close proximity to the next due dose (i.e. within 3 to 4 hours of the next dose), please seek medical advice.
• If unsure about what to do, the treating GP, epilepsy nurse, paediatrician or neurologist should be contacted.

Always read the label. Follow the instructions of your doctor and pharmacist. 

See more about how to store different brands of Lamotrigine 

Below are some of the possible side effects your child may experience: 

Rash 

Most serious. If your child develops any rash, red eyes, red mouth, or blisters around the mouth, nose or lips, please contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest Emergency Department (ED). The drug needs to be stopped immediately under medical supervision. Patients on sodium valproate (Epilim) are more at risk. Rashes are potentially very serious.  

Common side effects 

• Insomnia may occur. If this occurs sometimes it may be better to give the dose earlier in the day. Discuss with your doctor. 

• Drowsiness 

• Ataxia (unsteady walking) 

• Double Vision and blurred vision 

• Headache 

• Tremors 

• Blood disorders 

• Behavioural changes 

• Patients can feel better on Lamotrigine as it is a mood stabiliser. 

Rare side effects 

Liver and blood abnormalities 

Pregnancy and contraception 

• Lamotrigine may influence the oral contraceptive pill. It can decrease its effectiveness. 

• Lamotrigine can have teratogenic effects on the unborn child. 

• If a pregnancy is planned, a discussion with your neurologist is recommended. This is an important issue. 

• For further information, refer to the reproductive health section.

The information provided in this resource is limited and does not replace the need for a medical consultation. It is very important you speak to your doctor about all aspects of your medication including side effects when medication is first prescribed. Report any concerns to your doctor promptly.