New and concerned

[Gypsy]

Hi everyone. I'm new to this forum. I have had epilepsy for 17 yrs now and lately started introducing lamotrigine with my valproic acid medication. This was under instruction from my neurologist in the hope that I would eventually replace the valproic acid with lamotrigine in order to try and start a family.

I started taking 25 mg lamotrigine 6 weeks ago and started increasing the dosage to 50 mgs a day in the 5th week as instructed but in the doctor but then I started getting a rash under my feet and severe stomach cramps. I stopped the medication 4 days ago but I still have painful feet and stomach cramps. I've read a lot of horrific things about having a skin reaction to this kind of medicine. I'm not sure if I should go to the doctor. How long will it take for the medicine to be out of my system?

 

[hootie]

Hi and welcome!

I would go see the doctor.

 

[qtowngirl]

Hi Gypsy,
Did you stop the med under instruction from your doctor?
Similarly, I started lamotrigine recently and developed red swollen eyes and a rash the first day, on my arms, back, chest, ears, and face (no cramps however).
My epileptologist had me not take another dose - or anything to help it either (antihistamines, etc.) until it cleared up. I started it again five days later and though my eyes are still tender at times the rash did not return. Just to play it safe we cut the dosage in half and I took 12.5mgs 2x for a few weeks, and at this point I will be up to 50mgs 2x in a few days.
Similarly too I have had epilepsy for 17 years. Pls don't get yourself too worried about all the nasty stuff you read re: the skin reaction/rash. Obviously you're off it now anyway (really hope this was on the advice of your neuro), as you did exactly what is to be done in the case that the rash develops anyhow. And take it from me- I gave it another chance and never dealt with it again.
Also, as my epileptologist said, the real concern is the full body rash, she said a smaller one on say your arm, etc. is more likely but it's the 'head to toe' that gets them panicked.
Of course though, go to the doctor as much as you want until you feel reassured, I know I do, that's what they're for. Best of luck dear.

 

[Nakamova]

Hi Gypsy --

A number of people have an allergic reaction and rash in response to Lamictal, but for the vast majority it is not THE rash that's a sign of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

You should let your neurologist know that you had the rash, and that you stopped taking the medication. he/she should give you instructions for what to do next. As qtowngirl says, there's a chance that you'll be fine on the Lamictal but need to taper up at a slower pace. The general rule of thumb for ramping up on to Lamictal is "low and slow" -- very small doses over very long periods of time.