Can Lamictal Affect blood Glucose Control?

[grannymusiclover]

I've read that Lamictal is sometimes used to help with blood sugar control--especially to lower the levels.  Most people on this drug, who are diabetics, do seem to experience this effect.  My psychiatrist just increased my Lamictal from 300mg. to 350mg. daily, and plans to up it further.  It has definitely decreased my depressive symptoms, for which I'm quite grateful.  Until recently, I hadn't gone through a depressive episode of such severity, for almost 9 months, only hypomania most of the time.  Presently, I feel more even, more stable, but another serious problem has appeared on the scene.  Since the change in dosage, my blood glucose levels have shot up to over 200mg/dL.  They are consistently that elevated, and my normal dose of insulin is insufficient to handle it.  My doctor instructed me to raise my insulin (Lantus-a 24 hr., "background" insulin) by 5 units.  So far, this has had no noticeable effect.

My question is:  Is it a possibility that the increased Lamictal could be the culprit?  I know this is an uncommon reaction, but the glucose issue directly coincided with the Lamictal change.  At that time, no other alterations had been made nor new meds added.  I can only suppose this to be the best explanation.  Has anyone else experienced anything comparable to this problem?  Tomorrow, I can send an email, through the mental health clinic, to my psychiatrist.  As she is exceptionally knowledgeable and keeps abreast with current research, she ought to be able to answer my question.  In addition, I would prefer to send this, armed with other clients' reviews and descriptions of past experiences.  Please, any responses would be greatly appreciated!

[Frankei9]

I started Latuda about 4 months ago. I have not had any glucose testing yet, but had the impression my glucose levels were creeping up (I have NIDD Type II). Started Lamictal a little over a month ago an gradually increased dose, on 100 mg now and my glucose is unquestionably elevated above 175, I am going in for a blood test to confirm this and ask my doc what to do about it. Both drugs are helping with my bipolar.

[ILADVOCATE]

   Lamictal can interact with a variety of medications and you could ask them if this might be one potential cause. They have a physician's only database where they could find this information but in the meantime you could look on the medication website or the PDR (Physician's Desk Reference). Keep them informed of any other medications you are taking including over the counter.