Side effects of Lamictal

[Debra D.]

I have been on Lamictal for about 7 months and ever since I started it I have very bad cystic acne that takes weeks, sometimes months to go away. Is this normal?  And is there anything I can do to get rid of it, or at least control it? Thank You.

[HFHS.MD-AJ]

Debra,

The Physicians Desk Reference states that the risk of acne in people treated with Lamictal is about 1.3%, compared with 0.5% in people treated with placebo (a sugar pill). You did not state what you are being treated for. Maybe you can be treated with other medications that would have less risks of causing acne. Unfortunately, I am not aware of any specific measures that may  decrease or treat Lamictal-related acne. Please discuss your concerns further with your treating physician.

[pmracc33186]

Been in lamictal 200mg for more that a year, I am having a serious episode of acne, I have never had acne before in my life, I am 42. Ni tsure if is due to lamictal

[Tanya]

i was on lamictal for about 6 months.  it does say that one of the possible side effects is anorexia but i have been on others that say the same.  this time though, i really was effected by it.  i have yet to be able to eat more than about 500 calories.

[NRO-Sx]

Lamictal-related dermatological side effects include skin rash (1.1% have serious skin rash, especially females on a high starting dose), hives, facial swelling, painful sores in mouth and around eyes, and swelling lips and tongue.  Please visit your GP and tell him/her about other meds (eg valproate) that you are on.  There are other possible causes for your acne (diet, puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, stress level, birth control pills etc.)
Good luck.