lamotrigiinin

Lamotrigiinin, commonly known in English as lamotrigine, is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. In epilepsy, it is used as monotherapy or add-on therapy for partial seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. In bipolar disorder it is primarily used for maintenance to reduce recurrence of mood episodes, particularly depressive episodes.

Mechanism: Lamotriginin inhibits voltage-gated sodium channels, stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate. This action contributes to its anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing effects, though the exact mechanism in mood regulation is not fully understood.

Pharmacokinetics and dosing: Lamotrigiinin is well absorbed orally and is mainly metabolized in the liver by glucuronidation, with renal excretion of metabolites. The elimination half-life is about 25 hours in healthy adults not taking interacting drugs; valproic acid markedly increases levels, while enzyme-inducing drugs decrease levels. Initiation requires slow titration over several weeks to minimize the risk of rash. Typical maintenance doses for adults commonly range from 100 to 400 mg per day, depending on indication and concomitant medications.

Safety: A serious skin rash can occur, especially in the first weeks; therapy should be stopped at the first sign of fever, mucosal involvement, or widespread rash. Other common side effects include dizziness, somnolence, headache, and nausea. Lamotrigiinin is generally considered relatively safe in pregnancy compared with some alternatives, but adjustments may be necessary and close monitoring is advised.

Availability and naming: The drug is available in generic form and under brand names such as Lamictal. It is administered orally in tablet formulations and is produced for use in multiple countries.