Lamictal

[braccio]

How long does it take for an increased level of Lamictal work?  My doctor upped my mgs from 125 for 1 week, then 150.  I've felt more restless and have a hard time comprehending things when my husband asks me a simple question, such as where is something.  I don't like this feeling, but I'm holding out that this will help me, along with my current meds (Depakote, Cymbalta, Geodon).  At this point, I just don't know what's working and what isn't.  I just don't want to be on too much medicine that I don't need.

[ollienpinks]

I've been on Lamictal several times throughout my life. It's worked pretty well in conjucture with each combination of medications that I may have been on at that time. Matter of fact, I just started taking it again (in replace of Lithium.. so I didn't have to get regular blood tests). It does take a while to work. That's the worst part for me. The waiting. Your body is going to go through some... abnormal changes, for lack of a better expression, until it gets regulated into your system. If these side effects are unbearable or quite severe, contact your doctor and fill him in. Just keep in mind that your body needs to adjusted to new medication.. and most likely, the adverse feelings you are experiencing are most likely normal.. and it just the "not fun" part to get to the end result of it working. Take care, try to remain positive.

[ILADVOCATE]

From what I was told 150 mg. is the lowest effective dose of Lamictal and it should take some time for you to see the effectiveness of it. Two of the medications (Cymbalta, Geodon) you are taking can commonly (especially Geodon) cause extra pyramidal side effects (temporary movement disorders) such as akathesia which can be treated with a side effect pill. I had that problem with Lamictal but with that it is a statistically rare adverse side effect. If you are feeling any cognitive confusion that should go away in time. Once the Lamictal begins to work in full you can ask your psychiatrist about adjusting your other medications.