Can lamotrigine be used for partial-onset seizures in patients with bipolar disorder?
Lamotrigine is a medication used for two main purposes: managing seizures and maintaining stability in bipolar disorder. It is specifically approved for partial-onset seizures, which are seizures that start in one area of the brain. For patients with bipolar disorder, it is used to delay the return of mood episodes like depression or mania. This dual approval makes it a common choice for patients who have both epilepsy and bipolar disorder.
What the research says
Other medications for partial-onset seizures include levetiracetam and gabapentin, which are also approved for this seizure type 34. However, lamotrigine is unique because it is one of the few antiepileptic drugs with a specific FDA indication for bipolar disorder maintenance 5. This distinction is important when choosing a drug for a patient who needs treatment for both seizure types and mood disorders.
What to ask your doctor
- Is lamotrigine the best choice for my partial-onset seizures and bipolar disorder, or would another medication work better?
- How should I start taking lamotrigine to reduce the risk of a serious rash?
- What side effects should I watch for while taking lamotrigine for both epilepsy and bipolar disorder?
- Does lamotrigine interact with any other medications I am currently taking for my mood or seizures?
- Is lamotrigine effective for delaying mood episodes in my specific case of bipolar I disorder?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Neurology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.