The goal in treating epilepsy is for your child to be seizure free with no side effects from the medication(s). The choice of medication depends on the type of seizures your child has and any potential side effects. Lamictal is useful for the treatment of partial seizures
(seizures arising from one area of the brain) and generalized tonic-clonic seizures
(seizures arising from the whole brain). In some patients, it can make myoclonic seizures worse (seizures consisting of single rapid jerks of one or more parts of the body).
This medication is usually given twice a day. Additional medication can be given if you miss a dose – check with your physician to see how much you should give.
Lamictal is available in a number of different forms: 2 mg, 5 mg and 25 mg chewable tablets, and 100 mg, 150 mg and 200 mg regular tablets. The regular tablet should be swallowed whole, and the chewable tablet can be chewed, swallowed or mixed with food.
Some drugs interact with lamictal. If you child is also on valproic acid for example, lamictal is broken down more slowly in the body and your child will not require as high a dose. If you are concerned about a drug interaction, ask your pharmacist or physician.
Lamictal has a number of side effects, but they are uncommon and usually minor. Most children tolerate lamictal without any difficulties. If your child experiences any of the following side effects, you should contact your doctor.
Minor Side Effects
1.
Drowsiness, unsteadiness, dizziness, blurring of vision, double vision and abnormal eye movements may occur if the blood level of the drug is too high for your child.
Major Side Effects
1.
In 5-10% of patients, there is a risk of rash. This most commonly occurs in the first 8 weeks of treatment. The rash can be severe and involve the whole body.
The risk of rash can be reduced if the medication is introduced slowly. If a rash develops, stop the medication and call your doctor immediately.

2.
Lamictal may affect a developing baby if the mother takes this medication during pregnancy. New information indicates there is an increase in the risk for cleft palate in infants born to women taking lamictal. The information so far does not indicate an increase in the risk for major abnormalities. Women taking lamictal should discuss this issue with their doctor before becoming pregnant.
If you have any questions, please feel free to discuss them with your doctor.
Wendy A. Stewart MD,PhD,FRCPC
Pediatric Neurologist