I was put on this medication for my depression after a suicide attempt as I had tried ssri's and had bad reactions. I have not been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and have never had a manic or hypomanic episode. Honestly, I am confused about why they put me on a medication that can cause suicidal ideation after I had attempted suicide.
I triaged up to 200mg as there were no positive symptoms on a lower dose. After 100mg I began having really bad panic attacks and which triggered my asthma. Since moving up to 200 mg I have had terrible symptoms which have prevented me from doing any work. I have had multiple asthma attacks when I typically only have one a year. In addition to this I have the following symptoms: dizziness, tremors, headaches, blurred vision, lack of coordination, abdominal pain, sleepiness, back pain, nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, dry mouth, sore throat, swelling of my tongue, fatigue, trouble walking, chest pain, sensitivity to light, chills, drowsiness, stiff neck, muscle pain, joint pain, trouble swallowing to the point of choking, little to no balance, upset stomach, and shakiness.
Overall, I have had horrible symptoms at a higher dosage and still have seen no positive side effects (at a lower dose or the higher dose). I know my reaction has been extreme, but this medicine can have a positive reaction for someone else as each individual has their own body chemistry. I would just be cognizant that they don't discuss many of the negative symptoms. Additionally, I would warn people with breathing problems that they can get worse. Even though this drug says nothing about a negative reaction to asthma I am sure the symptoms affecting breath are what's causing the increased attacks.
I would also be cognizant of the fact that prescriptions and the psychiatric world have a monetary value and that "Lamictal (name brand for lamotrigine) is one of GSK’s top-selling drugs."Read More Read Less