Lamotrigine / Lamictal: neurologist discusses

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@maxwesmont]

What about bipolar ii disorder?

[@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 🙏🏼

[@JohnAckerman31]

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.

[@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.

[@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]

@@crisxroma 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]

@@crisxroma 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]

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

[@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

[@endograft]

Thank you for your lecture, Dr Andrew!

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@savorywoods]

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

[@michelleceo7935]

crazy itching. works for me.

[@Deltanurse]

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

[@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?

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@kayleighcooper8065]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@lifthill3819]

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

[@JoeBautista-d9q]

Same

[@JoeBautista-d9q]

I take 200mg

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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]

@I.M. Shirley Rongh 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

[@pierreorban5888]

I'm on Lamotragine 150mg for my epilepsy I'm also on Epineton 299mf by daily. Neither have had any effect. I'm 52 and my tremors are getting worse also I cannot have DBS due to a serious brain injury. I'm seeing a professor whose field is ET and Epilepsy. I'm fast running out of options .

[@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.

[@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😢

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@ronalddonner3396]

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

[@sandan2358]

This was just prescribed for my depression.

[@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

[@CinnamonForest-m7k]

Do u prescribe it for migraines as well?

[@NataliaDiazJackson]

At around what doses do these things happen?

[@dianemary]

Should I stop taking it if I have double vision?

[@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.

[@jeffhargrave719]

I have been on Lamotrigin for a few years I haven't had a rash or depression. I take 200 mg twice a day it doesn't give me body ack.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@erinwashkowsky8589]

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

[@JohnAckerman31]

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]

@@JohnAckerman31 I am so happy to hear that! I am glad you found something that worked for you.

[@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! ☺️

[@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.

[@elli2387]

WHAT DOES LAMICTAL DO FOR BIPOLAR.?

[@stxve9639]

Turns u gay

[@rajorshibanerjee2709]

Hello sir, thanks for ur vital info. Need to get your opinion regarding my treatment. I have been taking sertaline for 15 yrs now due to panic attack and ocd. Recently i feel incresing anxiousness and panic attact not severe as it was before With balance problem while walking. Now feel lightheaded and off balance while standing and even sitting mostly when i feel anxious a bit . A neurogist prescribed lemotrigone 25 mg and increse the sertaline dose to 50 mg to 100mg. Just started taken lemotrigine but felling sedation and lethargy while sleeping. Previous symptoms are not subsided yet .can you suggest me should i continue taking lemotrigine and is the diagnosis is correct? Plz help by responding ur precious opinion about this .Regards

[@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

[@jimdandy8685]

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

[@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 :)

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@stefanlavender174]

Can you do a video on aripiprazole?

[@ttrdf]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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?

[@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!

[@thomasdcat3463]

The cat is on lametrogine

[@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.

[@BeanDar]

Your mileage may differ.

[@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...

[@dorymcdonough7727]

I’ve been on it for 2 years it help a lot . Put on a lot of weight . Tired a lot . But I want to live now . So there that

[@pbufh]

Why don't you go to the gym then

[@JohnAckerman31]

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!) ✌

[@-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.

[@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.

[@elyseshires6314]

I really need help. I’m not sure if this drug is giving me neurological disorder type symptoms or if I have a neurological disorder. My anxiety has been horrible and I have all over body aches, headache, blurred vision, brain fog. I’ve been off of it for two weeks and still struggling. I don’t know if I should go get an MRI or see a neurologist because these symptoms didn’t begin until I began taking this medicine at 150 mg a day all at once at night

[@elyseshires6314]

Jeff G hey! I stopped taking the medicine and after like 3-4 months of being completely off of it, as well as being put on Buspar (and anti anxiety med) most of my symptoms have completely gone away. I still have body aches, but that’s mostly due to my muscle tension and I got to PT for that. So basically all better. That med was not good for me and unfortunately I had really intense side effects.

[@hashmatullah1603]

How r u now

[@ptinsureagency]

Where are you located???

[@alex314254]

im on 500 and all i get is shaking maybe depression but im not sure about that

[@NataliaDiazJackson]

Prescription is just 50mg. Is it ok to take once a day. I think I will have to split it at 25mg 2x a day.

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@TheOriginalbeauty22]

Is Keppra XR and Levetiracetam the same as Lamictal?

[@andyreevesarchive528]

No. discuss with your doctor.

[@peterd788]

They are different drugs. I now take Keppra (the non XR version) and Lamictal together.

[@lacrimacimpeanu]

No.they are 2 different medic. In my case, I take Keppra (Levetiracetam)+Lamictal( Lamotrigine) daily.

[@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

[@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.

[@Kronic_Jezus]

I'm having a lot of joint pain. Think it might be from this pill because my whole body hurts every day and was never this way before I took the medication. I'm Wondering what other good alternatives are there for having bipolar 1? I am also on abilify 5mg and am wondering if that pill alone can be enough to keep my stable on its own?

[@justinlepp967]

I found out they are acids and i craved lots of milk on those meds. When i got off them. I craved acids pop lemon juice amino acids etc.

[@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 ?

[@PandaA-cv3mm]

Even at 50 mgs..within two weeks I lost 1/3 of my hair. I was on excellent supplements with no known vitamin deficiencies. I know it helps a lot of people but this has made me extremely depressed and the hair has not stopped falling out 4 weeks later. Perhaps it triggered some sort of shock to my system but my Dr has taken me off of it. I am adding additional selenium and biotin and hoping for a miracle. I just don’t know why the hair loss would continue after only being on the medication for a short time.Any guesses? Thanks 😊

[@Joyjoy-ih1ie]

I to experienced hair loss at 100mg. I was working out heavy and wondered if that triggered it. I literally felt vexed in my shower. So much hair, but it stopped.

[@nickycotton6137]

Tbh I empathise 100%, but ever since Seizures began! What with all the Med'S aswell. Though as you mentioned it's a (HUGE)shock to the system having Seizures/Fits all of a sudden & 'Nocturnal wandering'😨 let alone the Absent Seizures. Very depressing, just hope helps me + your situation improves. Bless ✌

[@demelewmelesech3093]

Hi thanks she take over 30 years continu can you explain why not

[@sashahempsall9901]

How long dose lamictal take to work with sezuries

[@sashahempsall9901]

Can u do a video on pnes

[@andyreevesarchive528]

Maybe. It sounds like a good idea.

[@lindacarol5982]

I absolutely loved this drug and I felt alive with energy and I was into organizing and cleaning when before numb and laying just a vegetable existing. Then I got a bad itchy red rash on random part's of my body had to quit it cause of the rash. It can cause that deadly Steven Johnson syndrome. I now got prescribed Abilify I pick it up tomorrow. Can anyone give me any advice? I asked for a low dose of Prozac to the nurse that had to email my psychiatrist and to tell her I asked for Prozac. I wonder why Abilify?

[@JohnAckerman31]

I have been on this drug for four years now. Currently I take 200mg twice a day. I had a car accident last November, and was in the hospital for almost a week. Thankfully I was ok. I was on 150mg twice a day at the time. The dosage was increased while I was in the hospital. Since I started the 200mg, I haven’t had a seizure in a few months. I’m staying focused on driving again. I can’t drive for six months because of my seizures. I go and see my neurologist again in September. Just staying focused on getting back to the road, and getting approval from the state

[@Brianopolis]

Thank you for posting this video. I've been on a 100 mg of Lammies (as I call them) for many years. I wonder if splitting it for morning and evening would reduce this side effect and may even be better for mood regulation?

[@maggiesuderman9539]

You should definitely split the dosage between morning and night. I’m surprise your dr didn’t tell you that.

[@audyo14]

I'm stealing that. Lammies. I've been on 200mg and now 300mg for years also. I used to split it but I found it made me tired during the day.

[@GlennJimenez]

@@audyo14 so you used take it once?

[@audyo14]

@@GlennJimenez I still take it. 300mg every night

[@catherine5558]

@@maggiesuderman9539 Some Dr's recommend taking it at night to avoid feeling groggy but it mostly depends on dosage and individual reactionions.

[@mr.kalagh9879]

I’ve been getting tremor in my right side of head after 1 weeks using lamotrigine please advice me?

[@mr.kalagh9879]

Just everybody to know it was only for 1 night I had tremor I lowered to the dose next day and slowly increased the dose all the way to 200 mg a day from last 3-4 weeks! Going strong!

[@lela8081]

Is it same as Lamal?those are same pills?

[@DirtyCityMick]

Terrible insomnia. Had to quit right away.

[@pattyyeager3457]

How about Vryalar?

[@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. 🙃

[@evelynproud8792]

Hello, i have beeb seeing a psychiatrist that told me i have bi polar depression, he put me one 25 mg of this medication. I have felt better and believe it to be working. I have been on it for two weeks and he wants to increase it to 50 mgs one a day, at night. I am wondering why increase it when i already feel better? He said its common and his going to keep increasing it until im on at least 100, but im wondering why keep increasing it if i feel better? How does it work in that way and what would happen if i stayed on 25 mg? He didn't have any answers anf just told me to relax and take it and ill feel better, but id like to understand whats going on so i can decide if this is the best decision for me and if i can trust to do what he says, since he gives no answers and is stand offish. Thank you

[@Synth2000]

Evelyn Proud I am in the same boat. I find noticeable effects since 25mg. I think that the intervals is what is wrong. If taken every 24h it builds up on the former dose. That, with time creates tolerance, as the build up down regulates the number of receptors affected by the drug. Hence making necessary to increase the dose. So my intention is to experiment keeping a low dose and a 36h intake interval, or even 48h. The cleanup time for the substance is between 14 and 60h so why not to allow it to go before putting more in, so there is no brain-modification due to progressive buildup? I am just starting so no data yet, but what do you think about this idea? Any input is appreciated. My personal advice is never get your tissue cells too dirty, as the body is a balanced system - so I allow clean up times in everything I try. In this particular case it seems obvious, if the info is correct. For example, I take Omega 3 regularly but I give it a rest 2-3 months rest every year. And it works for me.

[@Rebelz173]

David I do not understand your idea. The point is to just take it the same time everyday that’s what it’s for. Over the weeks it will build up and get better

[@VagabundoOMC]

Have you had success treating Recurrent Brief Depression with Lamotrigine or other meds?

[@AndrewReevesNeurology]

As a neurologist, I do not treat depression. My primary care colleagues, and of course the psychiatrists, do that. Having said that, if someone suffers from depression AND has epilepsy, I would take that into consideration as we discuss which medication to begin.

[@wilsonfernandezpabon1836]

Hi Dr!!! Great video, I just found your Chanel! I am epileptic and taking Lamictal 75mg a day. Doing Keto diet and IF (Intermitent Fasting)➡Iam loosing memory. (Now have Cerebellar Atrophy) Does Lamictal will interfere with Cerebellar Atrophy??? I heard it affects coordination & Cerebellar Atrophy too. (Don't have yet any big coordination problems, but don't know what is going to happen to me in the future; and I am sacared). Have you heard of Berberine??? (Natural med) They say it is good for the brain. I need to help my brain and cerebellum; now that I am in an early stage. Want to know if I can take Berberine, I don't want it to interfere with seizure med. Hope you can answer!!! Thanks! (Sorry for my English l am from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷)

[@lacrimacimpeanu]

I wouldn't recomand Barberine. I wanted to take it but it interact with antiepileptic medication and I didn't take it. I didn't want to asume the risk. It Can be a trigger for a fit.