Lamotrigine / Lamictal: neurologist discusses

Neurologist Discusses Lamotrigine (Lamictal).
For information on epilepsy medications and pregnancy, please visit:
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[@Synth2000]

Andrew you just gained a subscriber. I can respect a doctor that knows his way with the soldering iron and has a proper cat and guitars!

[@LeendertvanHoogenhuijze]

This is basically the talk my neurologist gave me but with a lot more patience and me not being completely overwhelmed so thanks a lot.

[@bemeeklezvelveeta6719]

The only side effects I've noticed is a bad headache that goes down my spine, strange dreams, moderate insomnia, and confusion/forgetfulness. Not so bad compared to having total chaos in my mind at all times. It isn't a cure at all, but this medication is the only one that has helped me with bipolar 1 and PTSD. I hope it can help lots more people

[@Rebelz173]

So what is the cure then? I’m looking for a cure. This is closer to a cure than you’re gonna get

[@bemeeklezvelveeta6719]

@@Rebelz173 I've been in therapy for half of my life now, and I only in the past year have actually learned to practice coping. I just forced myself to be happy basically. Which I know isn't really an answer, not everyone can do that, but I pushed myself to hypomania and I've done what I can to maintain that level of positivity. The lamictal is the best med I've ever taken because it puts me just above baseline, it makes my emotions stronger but to where I just feel very great and happy. A lot of anxiety still, I don't have anything to treat that really besided abusing Valium lol. Sorry for the long response but yeah I feel 100000000 times better than I ever have in my life this way

[@audyo14]

It also helps me with my PSTD but it actually helps me sleep. I'm glad it can help you too :)

[@radmed979]

Ask your doc about prozosin I think it helps with the night terrors..... know what you mean.

[@starrhupp4262]

thanks

[@jessamyers8761]

Thanks for posting. I was just prescribed this today.

[@heatherhartman6474]

How is it so far?

[@lyndayates7533]

Me too. Awful.b

[@millerbeers33]

How did that work for you I'm in the same boat

[@mariew.8862]

Me too! Just took my first dose.

[@wearelimitless5443]

This is one of the big problems. No response. We need to share info to help eachother, unfortunately most come when (they) need info and or help and than they vanish. We all have to help eachother. If you read this I hope you're doing well and we would love an update on your progress.

[@Agent_Butterman]

Hey Dr. Reeves I just wanted to reach out and say thanks for the great information. I've watched a ton of videos since my recent diagnosis of epilepsy due to some gray matter heterotopia, and I found your videos to be much more real and personable than most of the stuff out there on youtube. The way you do everything in pretty much 1 take, the honest manner you speak in, and the funny chemistry between you and the camera woman help to create great content. Thank you!

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

Thanks for your kind words, Patrick! That means a lot. I've long felt that in speaking with people, we doctors (mostly unintentionally) make things more complicated than they have to be. I wish you well with controlling seizures!

[@davidcanty9118]

​@@AndrewReevesNeurology9

[@Alex-dk8dl]

I had childhood epilepsy that went away as a teen and was taken off meds. I recently started having seizures again in my late 30s. My neurologist just prescribed this drug for me. I was kinda nervous to start medicine after so long. You're good Doctor and most importantly, a good person. Thank you for your videos. Happy holidays 💚🧠🎄

[@iamgolden911]

My daughter also had childhood epilepsy, now it’s getting really bad. They are starting her on this after a bad seizure this morning.

[@iamgolden911]

@@AlwaysLoveEvery1 thank you! I just told my daughter about your situation and experience with lamictal. She’s feeling dizzy and groggy, does that go away? Do you remember how long?

[@johnackerman2085]

I was diagnosed with seizures back in 2018. I was first put on phenytoin as my seizure medication. The thing about this is that it completely changed my personality. I started becoming really snippy and rude. Thankfully I was taken off it, and was put on lamotrigine. I've got to say, this medication has done really well for me. I take 200 mg twice a day

[@elaineowen2177]

He looks to be both a good person and cute.

[@SillyOmega]

This drug was originally made to treat seizure. The bipolar was just secondary.

[@brunoliamat]

Thanks for the video, mate. Lamotrigine was a life saver for me. Kudos from Brazil. PS: I'm a guitar crazy (no pun intended) too. Also like fiddling with pedals.

[@davidlynch5998]

I'm a musician and right away I saw that you have some righteous guitars, therefore I really put some stock in your explanation of lamictle, thank you sir

[@tinic9630]

Hi Andrew, thanks a lot for the video! I wanted to ask you if you could maybe talk about bipolar disorder. I think you have a very clear approach and would love to hear your thoughts. I'm about to start taking lamotrigine and I'm hoping it can help me with my mood swings. Lots of love from Argentina! ☺️

[@savorywoods]

I experienced mild diarrhea and muscle cramps in my legs. Crazy itching. Thanks for the information!!!

[@michelleceo7935]

crazy itching. works for me.

[@maxwesmont]

What about bipolar ii disorder?

[@ttrdf]

ur a cool guy. i study for step 3 and i hate neurology less now, thanks, best wishes, dr Reeves, :-)

[@endograft]

Thank you for your lecture, Dr Andrew!

[@Ann-l7x]

Caused severe nerve pain, cognitive decline, anxiety, destruction of sleep architecture, severe light sensitivity and visual depth disturbance, balance problens, shakiness, anhedonia, MS-like symptoms, dementia/memory symptoms. Getting off the drug was horrendous - took me 18 months. Been off for almost 2 years now. All my mystery/inexplicable illnesses went away. I am finally sleeping. Still can't see properly or go in the sun. This drug took everything from me.

[@erinwashkowsky8589]

I’m so happy this was posted, I just started it for my seizures

[@JohnAckerman93]

I have been on this for about three years. I started out with 100 mg. I still had seizures while on the 100. I now take 150 mg, and it’s doing much better for me

[@nikkistahr7105]

@@JohnAckerman93 I am so happy to hear that! I am glad you found something that worked for you.

[@kikaorozco1135]

I’m on the lowest dose ! But I feel horrible , all I do is sleep I have no energy at all !!!! I don’t even have the energy to get up and brush my teeth 😓 and my vision change out of nowhere I see blurry lines and I feel like passing out , headaches and I’m not hungry at all so I stopped two days ago and I’m not feeling better but at list I’m not so anxious anymore ! Take care of yourself and do the most research you can before putting something into your body, I regret trying it I was better before it only made me feel worse I been too anxious and my mood is all over the place . Be safe and take care ❤️

[@Rai1123]

Kika Orozco 😢 I was just prescribed the lowest dose but scared to take it.

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

A good rule of thumb in trying medicines is, "Your mileage may vary."

[@reannadevarennes1797]

How many mg did you take, and how long were you on it before you noticed the side effects?

[@lizmoran4159]

Taking it 2 month . Refilled same prescription & strength just different pharm manufacturer . Broke out serve rash all over both arms and swelling inside my mouth and lips. Had no idea such small factor had such big factor

[@christopherbushinski6656]

thank god. youre the only piece ive seen use the term SJS. Everyone else keeps saying" rash" lol

[@jasonmeyer4429]

All I keep looking at is the guitar rack... what you got there?

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

Sorry for late response! I have ALMOST as many guitars as I need! Maybe just one more?! There's an early 70's Gibson Les Paul (SG body back then), I have a 3 or 4 strats, Yamaha LP, a blonde tele, Gretsch archtop, Epiphone SG (I dropped in Gibson humbuckers), and a few other oddballs lying around. Just got a late 60's Teisco to work on. I build guitar effects pedals and tube amps in my spare time, too. (I don't watch TV and I don't do Facebook....)

[@davidhenry1156]

@@AndrewReevesNeurology I'm on huge dose of anti epileptic meds(Keppra,Lamictal,and Clobizam)i'm talking grams here per day,3 times per day ,and get bad side effects and i can feel the literal pressure on my brain and get memory loss and or badly depressed and double visiuon for quite a while but the new consultant i have refuses to lower the dosage i was @ a number of years back when i was 95+% steady for the life of me i cannot understand.200mg,morning,1oo evening and 200mg again at night of Lamictal,1000MG kEPPRA 3 times per day,and,10mg clobozam 3 times per day.I go 3 weeks out of 4 having sezures,where as,on a lower dose about 7 years ago i only had minute small once a month.I also had a Vegus nerve stimulator installed in May which isn't making any difference.

[@heatherhartman6474]

@@AndrewReevesNeurology very nice, sir!

[@janicedobyns7537]

You are funny Jason Meyer, I think I took that medication and I quit quickly. Since I am bi-polar, I don’t remember why, I think it gave me rash. I was looking at guitars since my brother-in-law and nephew both play guitars. I going back to looking at cat and dog videos, see ya! I get bored easily, lol. God Bless You Janice Dobyns in Oklahoma!

[@zipperfixer7007]

Thats because you are on seizure drugs.

[@danielpruna9884]

Yes thank you for this video. It's appreciated.

[@PaulineRaabe_]

I like this doctor. I've been taking 300 mg of lamictal for bipolar works wonders for me. I did have to change to daytime instead of bedtime it was giving me the worst nightmares. I Take it during the day I'm absolutely fine.

[@trafficjon400]

i can undertand the nightmares but its better to feel better awake than Sleeping . stil it can cause more problems also.

[@Fedko3037]

You should warn that if you miss 3 days, you can go into psychotic rage. Also warn how intensely painful withdrawal is from this drug. It was given to me for depression. It is intensely powerful. I understand if you have seizures and intend to stay on it for life, but getting off this drug is excruciating. If you can avoid it, don’t take it for depression.

[@timothyprentice3346]

@@romaxcris g’day mate... I was just prescribed this today (for severe depression) and am curious as to how it has made you feel overall. Any feedback Is appreciate Thankyou

[@michelleceo7935]

whoa. will do. thanks.

[@JohnWick54935]

@@romaxcris I know right I’m sick over that comment tonight will be my dose 5 25mg I’m even more scared now maybe I should just stop it and not take it anymore

[@swiitchy511]

I go into psychotic rage on my own sometimes... Certainly don't need any help there.

[@Elijah8890]

@@romaxcris how are you now? did you take the drug lamictal?

[@cps9817]

what an adorable cat!

[@cinderheartmeow6032]

I actually used to have focal seizures that would result in a very bad migraine. It felt like someone was bashing my skull in. I haven’t had any serious effects from lamotrigine. It’s helped me to become more active, social, generally motivated and I haven’t had a seizure or migraine in at least a year and a half. I also have severe depression so it handles both at the same time. Most brands of antidepressants will make my seizures much worse so this was the best option for me as well as being put on hydroxyzine for any nasty panic attacks. I got lucky that this drug works so well for me. Any drug will effect everyone differently and I really had luck on my side with this one. It’s not a miracle drug or anything and it doesn’t just cure my depression, but i’m able to actually pull myself up now and i’m not suicidal anymore so that’s a plus.

[@bradanderson7978]

Take Benadryl if its cheaper than filling the hydroxyzine script. Same thing.

[@cinderheartmeow6032]

@@bradanderson7978 both make me pretty drowsy but at least my heart seems to be doing okay

[@trafficjon400]

this is an antipsychotic. and can use more damage than good leaving people olone in missory i n the longer run.

[@lifthill3819]

Since starting 100 mg Lamictal, I feel indifferent most of the time. Never particularly happy or sad, even when I normally would be

[@johnblackflag8746]

Epileptic here. Been on it for 5 years. I get crippling headaches in the morning, I have to remain sober for it to work (no alcohol or drugs), I cannot drive a car and I have suicidal thoughts. It's hell.

[@nellrussellstarving_artist1215]

Yes!! I think its makes my mom crazy. I'm talking to her Dr tomorrow. ARE YOU OK?

[@Fairygirl262]

Microdose it and it’ll take 17 days. Worse medicine and it’s costly. Plus I’m not one bit borderline at all as told by 1 doctor. Only do this w dr approval if you do not know how to microdose it but it’s easy. I also had anxiety med to help. The long lasting effects of drugs drown your heart and head chakras. Best of luck 🤞

[@johnblackflag8746]

@@Fairygirl262 My dosage got upped and no more headaches or bad thoughts. So I'm doing better.

[@Fairygirl262]

@@johnblackflag8746 🙏🏼

[@JohnAckerman93]

I too have epilepsy. I take 150mg twice a day. It’s been doing very well for me. I was diagnosed with seizures back in 2018. I was first put on phenytoin, which was awful. It caused,e to change my mood, and it almost made me lose my job. Once I was put on lamotrigine, it really helped me.

[@NonDuality80]

I just started it not too long ago. I’m up to 50mg a day. Maybe my agitation and self judging thoughts are a little less these past few days

[@kayleighcooper8065]

Started on 12.5gms and the panic attacks are severe. Shouldnt do this but its been incredibly rough😢

[@sage3609]

This video ruled a lot! Thanks for rocking it

[@Opinionteer]

My wife has used this drug for bipolar disorder for years. It seems to be the only one that works. She has issues with generic not seeming to be affective so she needs name brand. The issue with name brand is the price is so high.

[@melissaalvarez3028]

Same.here

[@Rebelz173]

And me too

[@Rebelz173]

Opinionteer always I switched to dispersible form and that isn’t as effective either so went back to tablet

[@oldmanhendo7183]

Lol they wanted $550 per month for name brand. Fuckin highway robbery

[@peterd788]

In January my neurologist slowly increased my Keppra to 2,000mg morning and night and I was having difficulty tolerating it. When we tried to start reducing it my seizures came back so he's trying to get my Keppra back down to 3,000mg a day which I have tolerated for years while slowly introducing the Lamictal. Fingers crossed, I hope the right combination is found.

[@nickycotton6137]

Same 'ere, but keeping me on Keppra & swapped Eslicarbazepine for the Lamictal. Aye, hope does the job for both/All the best with it anyway + wasn't aware given for Bipolar tbh

[@trafficjon400]

It all most killed me with the worse bad side effects 6 years ago. i still having a slow recovery and feel i'll never fully recover from this agony. my Doctor said i don't have bi-polar but some PTSD from abuse for so many years. my liver and brain dmage accured after taking this and feel ill still today from this. wishing a full recovery and also notice some related symtems of what dexamethisone did also.

[@lacrimacimpeanu]

I am on keppra 1000 mg daily + Lamotrigine 300 mg...and I am fine. When I am under mental pressure I may have focal seizure with awarnes at times.no other concerns. For me works good.

[@FrankensteinintoFranken-FINE.]

I was on keppra for epliepsey, keppra made me feel depressed. Moved onto this one now and so far so good. Probably foing to take 100mg a day and see how i go.

[@sandan2358]

This was just prescribed for my depression.

[@stephaniewilson5284]

I kept throwing up and my doctor didn't care and told me to eat apple sauce which didn't work so I halved my dose and didn't tell him and it stopped.

[@MariselaCronin]

I did the same thing and my problem was gone.

[@8QQ8]

What mg u guy were on that made u throw up? My doc wants me to start on 25 mg

[@frankwhite7109]

It affects the esophagus vagus nerve stomach. Horrible!

[@rickj3112]

Hi - I'm taking 250gms per day (100/150) for seizures and came on to this web site to check the side effects. I get double vision one or twice a week, but had never associated it with Lamotrigine.Thanks for that info, I had been getting concerned about my sight. A few other symptoms you mentioned such as impaired co-ordination have also put my mind at rest a bit. One aspect of that is something you will sympathise with, judging by the background to your video. I have been playing guitar with various bands for over 50 years, and I had noticed a slight lack of co-ordination, mainly string skipping. I'll just keep practising I guess, but I do appreciate knowing now what the likely cause is, as I had feared that it might be early onset Parkinsons, or somesuch. Excellent video, thanks, and also very well put over. (What are those guitars?) Regards Rick

[@lesliehiatt8959]

I’ve been taking lamictal for 35 years for the same reason. About 10 years ago I was hospitalized because what started out as double vision eventually turned into a lot more problems than that. First double vision, and later dizziness, until it got so bad that I started falling down. I would vomit on the floor, and was unable to walk or even sit up by myself for at least 12 hours. The dosage had not been changed in at least 15 years, it just finally got to be to much for my body to handle. I used to take 1600 mg. a day, now I take 600 mg. I’ve never been able to take the generic brand, it has the same side effects as a high dosage of Lamictal. But if you’re like me, and older in age then maybe you can’t take lamotragine, or you need a lower dose.

[@trafficjon400]

HOW DOES A MIND AT REST WITH INPAIRED CO-ORDINATION WORK

[@JohnAckerman93]

I currently take this for seizures. I was diagnosed with seizures back in 2018. I was first put on phenytoin, also known as Dilantin. It caused me to alter my personality, which almost caused me to lose my job. Once I was put on lamotrigine, I felt so much better. I take 150 mg twice a day

[@nickycotton6137]

All various Med's bound to mess with Brain Chemistry & Personality surely. Fair-Do's for getting back on track/Great you're feeling the benefits from Lamictal.✊. Keppra remind of Rocket shaped Tab's & off-putting, 'Keppra Rage' seems common! On Brivaracetam which help. Less bitten Mouth + Black Eyes = Good sign. (Do find Heat a trigger & Seizures occur more as Seasons change!) ✌

[@vanessareece1550]

Yeah, I'm a bass player, looks like you have an interest in guitars!! You have a lot! Very nice!!

[@emobassistformallygeddysco3126]

Looks like he has a 6 string bass there as well

[@NeverNotASetup]

Bass player here noticed the same lol

[@lorihamlin3604]

I’ve taken lamictal for 10 years for epilepsy. I was put on Zoloft but decided against. Don’t try cold turkey! Had side effects from other seizure medications that were unpleasant. Lamictal worked for me..no seizures for years.

[@lela8081]

@@frenne_dilley im on the same pills..from Zoloft i lost weight i was two week without food,upset stomach and dreams that i have was wild🙄after two month using is better but only problem that i have still is insomnia.Rivotril makes me agressive i dont know why so i dont use them anymore

[@Adam-nz9wi]

Could someone qualified PLEASE answer this question. I'm currently taking 200mg Lamictal in the morning andI'm less depressed, able to think clearer, don't jumble words as much, and have less anxiety. I just get a slight drowsy feeling. I strongly believe I'm Bipolar yet my psychiatrist insists I'm not... From my research 200mg is a fairly high dose for someone without epilepsy. What does that mean? I've not found peace being on that dose with 40mg celexa and 150mg wellbutrin combined. Nor200mg Lamictal 30mg Mirtazepine combination.

[@Rebelz173]

I’m confused with what u are saying? Are you saying you feel better taking the 200mg but need to take it by itself without the other meds? Im currently taking 50mg lamictal and even that dose helps me greatly. I think I’m bipolar too cause whenever I take just ssris they do not help me at all but when they added lamictal I came alive. But my psychiatrist also thinks I do not have bipolar

[@naturalisted1714]

I have schizoaffective disorder and Lamictol took away my depression for two years (I was on about 300mg per day)... Then about 4 weeks ago I couldn't remember if I took it or not - I didn't want to take it twice by accident, so I just said "eh, oh well, I'll go about my day and see how I feel"... Then I felt amazing... Then, I somehow convinced myself that I DIDN'T take it that day (I still to this day cannot say if I did or not), so because I was convinced that I didn't take it I decided that it was time to get off of it.... The withdrawal of lamictol is very bad.... I became very tired and depressed. Now, 3 weeks later, I HAD to call my Dr for help. I started back on 25mg last night. I'll be going back up to 50mg in a week. I cannot function without it. I thought it was bad. It isn't for everyone, but it takes away my severe depression. I need it. There are of course side effects to taking it. It makes me happy and so when I'm happy I tend to be more careless with money. So I'm going to stay around 50mg so I don't get TOO happy. Also, I suggest not having any caffeine or marijuana or alcohol while on Lamictol. At least these are things I've learned I cannot mix with it.

[@Tiffany_7467]

Im on 300 and i dont have side affects really.

[@tomaskillian6442]

Pro trick: watch series on Flixzone. Me and my gf have been using it for watching loads of movies during the lockdown.

[@aidenwilliam458]

@Tomas Killian Yea, been watching on flixzone for years myself =)

[@ismaelnoah7801]

@Tomas Killian Definitely, been using flixzone for since november myself :D

[@westleycarmelo1826]

@Tomas Killian Yea, I have been using Flixzone for months myself :D

[@titanronnie9590]

@Tomas Killian Definitely, I have been using Flixzone for years myself :)

[@Gregory_Rasmussen]

I've been taking Lamictin for most of my life. In South Africa GSK trade it under the name Lamictin but I think it's exactly the same medication. I take it twice a day.

[@Ann-l7x]

Yes, it is the same - active ingredient is lamogtrogine.

[@blinkersxo]

I lost the ability to swallow when I took Lamictal. It was terrifying

[@Ann-l7x]

I had dysphonia and dysphagia. Went away when I stopped the drug.

[@MichaelBLive]

Got confused with the guitars in the background, thought I clicked on a guitar related video by accident which would be very easy to do. Thanks for the info. Starting on it today.

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

I hope it is going well, Michael. And keep making music!

[@heatherhartman6474]

Thank you, doctor. I'm about to have my telephone appointment soon to ask my doctor for it. I need my life back!!!😭😱

[@heatherhartman6474]

CUTE KITTY!!😍🤩 and I got my Lamotrigine!!!

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

Yay! How are you feeling? Maybe a bit early to know, of course....

[@helenratt66]

I had a very bad reaction to two weeks on it. My blood pressure shot up and I ended up in the ER. I couldn't speak for days and stuttered for about a month. Very disturbing experience.

[@vishalblackbelt]

Same here, my BP also shot up badly.

[@helenratt66]

Yeh exactly my experience. Wondered if it was anTIA due to crazy high BP. Who knows but I’m done with it. Have some issues with concerta but need it to function. Take BP meds. Nowhere near as high though.

[@frankwhite7109]

Same! 200/100. Garbage Med...

[@threedimensionalmodelcitiz7671]

Same

[@32starsandsugar]

great job Marble!

[@untiltheaxefalls7265]

I think that u should have mentioned the absolutely mind numbing side effects and withdrawal symptoms of coming off of lamictal after long term high dose treatment. I foolishly decided to take myself off of lamictal after a 4yr 500mg a day treatment for BPD (borderline personality disorder, not bi-polar) and it was a mistake i won't make again! However low the side-effects of treatment may be, this is a medication that should always be tapered off of and not ended abruptly if a more effective medication has been deemed more appropriate for his/her affliction.

[@milanic7267]

hi :) I have bpd. How has lamotrigine helped you? greeting

[@milanic7267]

500mg? isn't that too much?

[@Ben-jq5oo]

@@milanic7267I have been taking 400mg (split dose) for 16 yrs, for BPD. Seems to help with general stability, but not with the anger triggers. I would say overall it’s worth continuing. No side effects.

[@Ann-l7x]

You should taper all psychiatric meds very slowly and in snall increnents - 5-10% reduction at a time. Lamctal has terrible withdrawals, but they were certainly more manageable than the side effects.

[@DirtyCityMick]

Terrible insomnia. Had to quit right away.

[@iwantmyfriescrispynotburnt3981]

Cats with yarn. I felt that in my spirit

[@juliesmith5567]

Ive had lamotogine its crap with so many others i still have so many seizuires whats the point i have 14 different more over time again again😢

[@dorothyglade9087]

Thank you for the information!

[@Twisted_utopia]

Wondering if anyone has had visual problems on lamotrigine, I have a a weird visual snow side effect with hypersensitivity to light. Has anyone dealt with this?

[@klausbohlert6613]

Mit meinem rechten Auge ,sehe ich vor allem Abends violett.Auch hat das rechte Auge Nachtblindheit.Rückenschmerzen sind leider auch vorhanden.Ich überlege das Zeug abzusetzen.

[@Ann-l7x]

Yes, severe light sensitivity and visual depth disturbance - had to stop driving and can't watch TV or movies due to movement. Constant migraines also. I tapered off now. They eye issue is still there, it is somewhat better. Hope it heals completely.

[@Marco-nx5tj]

I recently had my meds changed from valproic acid to lamotrigine a couple months ago even though I have had a seizure because it's not as effective it has made me less depressed and not eat as much food like I lost 50 pounds and its making me feel much better since valproic acid was making me have high amounts of ammonia in my blood

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

I hope you can find a dose that keeps ALL the seizures away, and doesn't cause significant side effects, Marco!

[@Marco-nx5tj]

@@AndrewReevesNeurology thanks it's working pretty well

[@josephlucas85]

Marco how much dose are you taking of the Lamotrigine a day? Cause I was having very bad Side effects from it when I was taking 200 in the morning and 200 at night so basically 400 a day but my neurologist put my medicine down to 200 a day so 100 in the morning and 100 at night. Also is it controlling your seizures

[@naturalisted1714]

It worked amazing for me at first but then got weaker and weaker, but my Dr raised my dose about a week ago so I'm going to wait to see how this dose of 100mg a day works. When I first started my confidence was very high, I was getting waves walking down the street from total strangers. Everyone was attracted to me. It was great... But like I said, that faded... Now I'm higher confidence than before I started lomictol... So I'm just going to keep taking it and see if this dose is the way to go.

[@ganggang517]

try to quit this shit asap

[@Rebelz173]

Gang Gang this med is a very good med why u would want to quit is beyond me

[@kepler5156]

Please Can you give me update now?

[@aethelwolfe3539]

Can lamictal cause involuntary movements? I have found some articles on pubmed that have reported either a cataplexy or Touretticism like syndrome that goes away upon stoppage. Like semi suppressable involuntary movements triggered or worsened by emotions.

[@authenticmslife]

Yep. It gave me hypnic jerks (and a ton of other side effects too). They started to settle down as I tapered off. But now that I've been off it for a couple of months, they've come back. Again, other side effects came back too. Withdrawal from this drug is brutal, no matter how slowly you taper.

[@PuffleFuzz]

Aww I love your cat Marble: Lamotri- what?

[@ebperformance8436]

Just took 25mg for bipolar with self harm and 2mg of Klonopin for sleep in the mourning I’m gonna take the 10 mg aripiprazole once a day... I’m on all kinds of things for autism, PSTD, bipolar, major insomnia with Hallucinations and high anxiety with self harm.

[@snoflake9485]

Klonopin may be simulating dementia by anticholinergic effects and destroying restrictive sleep. There are plenty of other non-benzo drugs. Maybe you'd do better on clonidine for sleep, blood pressure and anxiety. But you’re probably already addicted.

[@ebperformance8436]

snoflake I’m tapering down on the klonopin, Incase my psychiatrist makes me cold turkey...I also have back called Kratom and Gabapentin to help with withdraws.

[@lindacarol5982]

@@ebperformance8436 gabby's are good for withdrawals and help prevent seizures

[@daphneduryea9136]

I started having tardive dyskinesia of my tongue at the same time I started on Lamictal. I really hate to stop the Lamictal though as it has helped alleviate my neuropathic pain d/t adhesions more than any other Rx I've taken. But the TD is quite annoying & causes jaw pain.

[@daphneduryea9136]

@Tony Camaj I've tried gabapentin, nortriptyline, Topamax & have been on Lamictal since June of '18. The Lamictal is the only Rx med that has helped. I can't really even feel any pain now that I'm on it. Lamictal is for seizures but is "off- label" for adhesion pain. You should at least try it to see if it works for you, too.

[@coronasummerclassic]

@@daphneduryea9136 what was your dose?

[@daphneduryea9136]

@@coronasummerclassic I take 250 mg total. I have 100 mg tabs & take 1 in the morning & 1 1/2 half @ night. I went to a neurologist & he said it's not the lamictal. He said if he gave me a Rx for it that it would counteract my Wellbutrin. So, I'm still just living with the tardive dyskinesia.

[@ronalddonner3396]

I wish you would make a vid contrasting the different seizure medications.Lamictal vs Gabapentin vs Lyrica ,very confusing.

[@CinnamonForest-m7k]

Do u prescribe it for migraines as well?

[@MP-gz3zx]

it was given to me for anxiety and depression. It ruined my memory and made me lose my hair and gave me spots all over my back. And now I am unable to come off it.

[@Bmac_Gaming]

I'm in the same boat. This feels beyond awful.

[@MP-gz3zx]

@@Bmac_Gaming what have you done about it? Im finding it so difficult to come off it.

[@danijohnnie]

Hello why are you unable to come off of this med? I thought you could lower the dose a then take it less and less over time.

[@MP-gz3zx]

@@danijohnnie yes, that is what you are supposed to do, but I just reduced by 25mg, and the depression and anxiety are unbearable that I have to go back on it the next day. I was originally given it for depression and anxiety, but it has now also destroyed my memory and I so wish I had never been put on it in the first place. I realise everyone is different, and it does help a lot of people, but that is what it has done to me.

[@Ann-l7x]

Follow the Hearher Ashton Protocol to get off this drug. It is as difficult to get off anticonvulsants than benxodiazipines. The same principles apply. Something we were never told by doctors - just how damaging lamogtrogine is to our brains.

[@adalynl]

i just started this medication and i'm experiencing most of the side effects.. i wonder when i'll be able to go back to "normal".. and without any more seizures of course

[@khristinarada2010]

I always watch your videos. I have learned alot. I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. If you are the kind of doctor who likes a puzzle medically than please tell me how I can message you.

[@BeanDar]

Possible autoimmune enciphalitis?

[@nickycotton6137]

Thanks for the info' 'Andrew'...👍 It's the headaches worried about most, but just hope works better than Zebinix.

[@theholisticdog3381]

I am 180cm and weigh 82kilograms, I take 200mg, have been going up for 2months maybe, recently started. I take it all every morning. I only have side-effects every time when I go up in dose like maximum 3 days and it does not really bother me, it's very minor and has worn of in like half a day if I get some issues.( I have trained alot running and some strength while begining so that might also help alot with illness symptoms and possibly side effects) And I can't say that I notice any side effects at all only when going up but I think that expected to have some reaction when changing. But the thing I want to say is, it has changed my life and I only want to try and see if I can safely go higher in dose or if that I'm on my optimal level.

[@marthasanchez159]

I was prescribed recently Lamotrigine for Absence seizures I have been having since 2019. I have tried many different types of medication that didn't work for me. I was to the point that I was having 7 to 10 seizures a day, Suicidal, and giving up on life. I still manage to get up and go to work. I was afraid to start taking a new medication. I didn't want to have the same side effects as with the previous meds. So I hesitated and didn't take it for a while. The episodes were getting really bad, so I decided to take it and give it the benefit of the doubt. He started me with a low dose 25mg and increased it weekly until I was taking 150mg twice a day. The results were instant, within a few days my seizures were completely gone. I was feeling energized and motivated again. Then the headaches and the double vision started. Soon after on it for 4 weeks the rash started on ky hands, back and stomach. And also, more dreaming than usual not nightmares. I decided to cut the meds to 100mg once a day. The rash is almost gone but now the episodes are back, very mild not as bad as before but I am aware of them. It's just like day dreaming and very tired. I don't know if I should had not decreased my meds, but I was frightened and didn't want to go through the experience from previous meds. Thank you Dr. for the great info, I wished my Neurologist had shared with me all the side effects and being for concerned when I call his office and mentioned the rash I had from the medicine.

[@trafficjon400]

How does a person keep a Job wile having 10 Seizures a day. nobody i mean any body would not higher a person in this condiction. i really don't get this unless honesty is at bay. a true honest person would not be driving risking other life. i allmost died in the hospital being also most killed buy a driver having a siezure. she died driving up an inbankment fliping over going airborn and landing on top of my Car crushing my roof all most killing me.

[@thomasdcat3463]

The cat is on lametrogine

[@paulabrown5243]

For those viewers on here that take this medication- since this video came out 5 years ago there is now an FDA recognized fatal problem that can ocurr in some. The abbreviation for this is HLH. You can look up lamictal induced HLH and get the full info on this. A police officer had been put on this med for bipolar disorder after only less than ten days got a fever of 103 degrees, muscle aches and pains and other problems. He saw a NP who said he had an infection and he was sent home on antibiotic. He didn't get better but by the time he was hospitalized it was too late. He died. You have to act on this quick as it can't be helped once you reach a certain point. This is scary. Patient told the doctors and NP he had just started lamictal. Be your own advocate. Stay informed and ask a lot of questions.

[@sherinamartin4706]

Thank you your information!

[@jimdandy8685]

Thank you for sharing. If you had a child that was Bipolar with chronic pain would you prescribe this medication?

[@infin1ty850]

Very informative video. I'm on it as a mood stabilizer, so I'm only taking 50MG a day with my antidepressant. It does cause tremors in my case, but that's something I can absolutely deal with.

[@trafficjon400]

Sounds like people can deal with earthquakes. strange and dangerous meds i never fully recovered from after weaning off. Dexamethisone i never recovered from and still wake in shaking pain and know it shortened my life span about 20 years . i don't want to believe this but know what i'm going through . thesae meds are for other things tat realy do more damage than good. eventually these poor people won't be able to come here and explain what is happening to them. later they are totally ignored by family and left to die alonein the Countrys they thougt .

[@rollingrock5916]

Your tremor was brought on by lamictal? Thank you

[@Msberryc]

I’m in the same situation with dosage. My weirdest side effect is common and vivid dreams

[@infin1ty850]

@@rollingrock5916 Sorry for just now responding! Yes, at least that's what I've been told. They did not start until after I had started taking the medication and my GP doesn't suspect any other cause. The tremors are very subtle, but are noticeable to me.

[@infin1ty850]

@@Msberryc Oh, yeah, don't even get me started on vivid dreams. I couldn't tell you how many times I've woken up in the morning and have bad to make sure it was just a dream and not some repressed memory.

[@Deltanurse]

Yes , had the stupid feeling, deer in headlights look . Lost 30 pounds, had double vision - 2 years later brain is not the same

[@kimstockwell721]

My 33 year old son is on lamictal and Tegretol and clonazepam. He has severe learning disability and has Lennox gastaut syndrome which is a severe form of epilepsy.

[@smoaro6451]

So okay... I just started 25mg. Of lamictal. In fact this is day 4. It makes me wide awake so I think I'm going to take in the a.m. BUT... the last 2 days my body has been itching all over within 1 to 2 hours of taking. NO rash... just itchy skin. What are your thoughts?

[@michelleceo7935]

I got this too. it is extremely effective for me. Newly diagnosed, at 64. I coat my entire face in Vaseline...

[@ptinsureagency]

Where are you located???

[@Disharm0ny]

I started Lacosamide about a month ago, and a few days after I started experiencing double vision. A couple of weeks after I started having nausea to the point that I can hardly eat, and this past week I've been experiencing lots of heart palpations and some chest pain (sometimes very severe.) My doctor keeps telling me that these side effects will go away once I reach my full dose, and that heart palpations/chest pain can't be side effects of this medication. Is any of that true, or should I push for a second opinion?

[@angelaknox]

How are things now? Hope you found the answers you were seeking

[@SuperWilbur77]

Hello , I’m new to all this epilepsy stuff. One year now. It’s awful. I’m 69 !!! I’m taking Lamotrigine 100 in am 100 mg in pm with 2 zonithromides (sp). I’ve read Lamotrigine can cause heart arrhythmias. That’s worrisome for sure someone that’s older. It’s a newer discovery. Research seems to be ppl like the older drugs. They seem to help more. I have deja vu ? What does that mean ? That I’ve been to a seizure that I thought I’ve been at before ? Lol. Seizures are horrible for me anyway. I have the wavy nauseous ones. I fall. Terrifying.

[@Synth2000]

I find that you can notice effects from the starting doses This drug sticks for more than 24h (cleans somewhen between 14 and 60h), so why not to stick with a lower dose and increase the intervals to 36h, so buildup is avoided? If taken every 24h, it build ups in the tissue > build tolerance > force higher doses and down regulate different receptors. I am going to experiment keeping a low dose (25 or 50) taken every 36h. or even 48h ? My case require slight mood moderation only tho. I understand that other cases may require higher doses. But still I think that the recommendations specify an excessive frequency of the intake. If the drug is present for so long, why not to give it more time to wash out ? To take a 14-60h lived mes every 24h, if you allow me a bold example, is like getting drunk and repeat when you are still hangover = not enough time to clean the system = build tolerance and increase the side effects. Maybe my logic is wrong - please chime in if you can offer some input. Maybe Dr. Reeves himself can speak from experience here?

[@Eihab09]

Hi, how is the pulsed dosing going?

[@Synth2000]

​@@Eihab09 I tried it but it was not too practical, so I am just doing 24h cycles and here and there I skip one day. I find it more practical. You can notice it wearing out by the last part of that day. If you wait two days, the second day you will feel like crap - insecure, sad, weak, etc. But, I kept the 25mg dose, it just keeps working for me. Sometimes I increase in 12.5mg or even less when I have to face a very challenging day and works wonders too. I am working at a very high level. Also I meditate, eat once a day, and use a good combination of natural supplements. At this point my body and mind feel pretty nimble and powerful - which is mindblowing for me because I was pretty much screwed no so long ago with a lot of problems to get out of the rut. Lamotrigine/Lamictal has been a very important ingredient in that equation, a major turning point towards wellness if you ask me.

[@Synth2000]

@Tony Camaj I was having depressive periods of 2-3 days every 10 days or so, out of nowhere, with severe mood swings and weakness. And in general a lot of difficulties to get things done, follow a structure, sleep problems of all kind. Messy and struggling to keep a job or keep my place organized.

[@taaniadyzel9756]

Thank you.

[@-m7k0z7-9]

Can lamotragine be taken for a few months as a trail? And then stop taking it later on? A neurologist/psychiatrist (in addition to another neurologist) prescribed and advised me to take lamotragine and an antidepressant, but I didn't take any of them. So I was wondering if I could take lamotrigine for at least 3 months to try it out on a low dose. P.S.: I'm a medical student, not doing well academically, actually doing very very bad academically. Don't see the worth of pursuing it. Don't know if it's just me or something psychiatric having me be like this (it might be just me). For history: -I had 3 blows to the head before I was 15 (recent MRI is normal) -One of 3 EEGs over 2 years (2020-2021) showed "moderate voltage sharp-slow wave transeints over bitemporal region, with subsequent propagation to other brain regions". With one EEG showing "mild left temporal sharp slow waves". All having being 20-minute EEGs, no assymetry, present and normal PDR, conducted in normal settings, with provocation tests causing no abnormality. -was on 20mg Fluoxetine, and 30mg Miratzepine (7 pills each, for 21 days) when I was 21, in 2019.

[@babynaysc]

I'm bipolar, I used 200mg of Lamotrigine and the doctor asked to increase it to 300mg, I started 3 weeks ago and I have a headache and pain on the sides of my face, as if it were sinusitis, even taking pain medication, it doesn't relieve it much. Along with that, it ends up making me a little dizzy.

[@dianemary]

Should I stop taking it if I have double vision?

[@wearelimitless5443]

I've never seen a cat looks so unimpressed. Haha.

[@taaniadyzel9756]

Doctor. Does Degrenol (generic tegretol) fall in the same category as the tablet you are discussing? 200mg for 15 years morning and evening? Also 0,5mg Rivotril at night.

[@BeanDar]

Your mileage may differ.

[@MelissaHurley1994]

I'm on 25mg started. I've taken it before ND tried others. Been off. But now I'm having the most vivid wild active dreams. And I do and don't like them. Dreaming a lot of my passed away mom. Dreaming of things I think I've processed and having anxiety over in my dreams I think. 🙃

[@GeraltOfRivia99]

i have read alot of reviews saying this med was the only one to help with there chronic anxiety? can you give some input on this? alot of anxiety issues can actually be related to partial seizures in the brain or abnormal activity. this is NOT talked alot about but alot of times people have cysts or even non cancerous tumors growing and pushing against there brain which can deffinitley cause abnormal brain activity. there are certain genes that are also not talked about where you are more prone to mental illness. whats the mechanism of action for lamictal is it a glutamate blocker or gets rid of excess glutamate there for enhancing the balance of GABA and calming down the brain?

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

Multiple mechanisms, especially use-dependent sodium blockade as well as GABA augmentation.

[@ninveh1]

Es gibt eine Art von schlimmer absoluter Schlaflosigkeit, wo man seine Schlaffähigkeit komplett verliert (Nicht Ffi , sfi). Wo nur Lamictal Lamotrigin für Hilfe gesorgt hat. Leider ist diese Art von Insomnie von der Medizin kaum erforscht, gar unbekannt. Die Mediziner versuchen es vergeblich mit Antidepressiva zu behandeln, weil es auf die Psyche zurück geführt wird. Lamotrigin in kleinen Dosen wie 5 mg , ja 5 mg kann schon helfen wieder einzuschlafen.

[@PK-wy5ri]

What do you think about using marijuana in edible forms to hypothetically help, or help with side effects? Iv'd definitely noticed not feeling as tired and foggy.

[@jpmcfluffies9451]

I am getting conflicting information on whether it causes insomnia or not. I am taking several sedating medications, but have also been taking lamictal at night for a while now and still having trouble sleeping. I take 200mg. Wondering if I should try taking in the morning instead. But if the half life is 24 hours, does it even really matter what time I take it if its staying in my body for 24 hours anyway? Could you kindly share your thoughts? Thanks for your feedback.

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

Insomnia is not a common side effect in my experience, but yes it can happen. Yes, it generally does matter what time you take it; the level will be down by about 50% by the time you take the next dose. I've had a couple patients who had insomnia on Lamictal, so I switched them to the morning. Talk with your doctor, of course.

[@TigerPaint92]

Pretty tired and slow on 200mg, but I also started a few days ago...im guessing it will get better in a few weeks.

[@jordanzambii2677]

You started on 200mg!?

[@lindacarol5982]

@@jordanzambii2677 that's much too high of a mg for anything to start out on. In my case big time

[@TigerPaint92]

@@jordanzambii2677 No I started on 50mg. Then 100, 150 then 200

[@jordanzambii2677]

Linda Carol exactly why I was so shocked 😅

[@jordanzambii2677]

Tiger Paint that’s still so shocking to me, my psychiatrist was extremely adamant on starting me at a very low dose (12.5) and increasing it very slowly, no more than 25mg (and that’s after increasing it by 12.5 for the first few times) there is a high risk of an extreme rash all over the body if not done slowly so I’m just shocked they had you go up so quickly, but I am in Canada so obviously our regulations differ. Just interesting.

[@davidjustiniani9150]

Thank you 🙏

[@amethystfire3076]

Your cat is so cute.

[@Rebelz173]

One thing I’ve noticed is as I’m so sensitive to meds too is that I was taking the tablet form for around 5 years but 5 months ago I switched to the dispersible form and I have sort of relapsed, I’m a lot more depressed now.. I really think it isn’t as strong as the tablet form.. not sure if this can happen but it seems too with me

[@eliymorales9510]

Has anyone had any irritability or anger while taking this? I’ve never been an angry person but since starting I feel like it has gotten so worse but my psych insists it doesn’t cause worsening in irritability...

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

It can happen, yes. For every drug there is usually a "paradoxical reaction," where the person reacts the opposite of what is usual.

[@rc121crx]

I was irritable

[@suns1457]

great job!

[@denamcewan4841]

My 15 year old is on 200mg lamictal for about 2 years now and is suddenly experiencing very bad insomnia. Only sleeps about 3 hours a night then wakes up every hour upon hour till he supposed to get up. We’ve done sleep study and done surgery to remove tonsils. Nothing has worked. Is it possible the insomnia would start after about a year and a half of use ?

[@Mr861994]

Thank you for your video!

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

You are welcome!

[@paulflint6254]

Aww man, i love your cat. On lamictal, my side effect is drowsiness so for

[@synthartist69]

I was taking 100mg but did not notice it working. I stopped it but kept taking celexa 20mg and it definitely helps my negative mood, but still not perfect. Getting hot flashes from celexa possibly not sure yet.

[@eidetic-mo6pl]

synthartist69 are you menopausal? I get hot flashes on Lamotrigine but I’m also in menopause. Don’t know which one is causing hot flashes:(

[@synthartist69]

@@eidetic-mo6pl I am a male. I discovered that it is not the lamotrigine causing it. Starting to wonder if it is the celexa

[@PD-sf7ql]

So who's the first poor sucker that found out about the rash??