Effect of lamictal on cognition

[cuz100]

I am in my mid 40's I have been on Effexor XR at 225/mg and Lamictal 300/mg a day for several years to treat bi-polar.  I have been having problems with cognition, memory and concentration for many years and it seems to be getting worse. I have problems finding the right words, for example, I'll name 4 or 5 males names in my family before I say the right one, or i'll say glass instead of window.  I can't remember things, for instance, while in the shower sometimes I can't remember if I've already shampooed my hair. I feel like I talk stilted and it's really embarrassing because I use to have really good communication skills.  I recently attend a brain injury seminar and they mentioned medicines that affect cognition in survivors and that might actually delay recovery of certain abilities, one they mentioned were anti-seizure medicines.  Could the lamictal I have taken for the last 5 years be contributing to my symptoms? Thank you in advance for your assistance.  

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

Yes, that does may be contributing to your cognitive difficulties.  Ask your doctor to consider lowering the dose in order to see what happens.

[xanweaner]

I've been on much lowered doses of Lamictal - only 40-50 mg. for several years...my brain does sometimes seem slower - not as sharp - but I'm also weaning off of xanax, which might be a contributor.
Do you have to be on such a high dose of Lamictal? Just curious...