Lamictal (Lamotrigine) is a drug that is approved for the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It works as a sodium channel blocker by inhibiting voltage-sensitive sodium channels. It is also thought to inhibit the release of glutamate at various areas throughout the limbic system. The drug has been found to be neuroprotective and is clinically effective at preventing the drastic changes in mood associated with bipolar disorder. In addition to acting as an antiepileptic drug and mood stabilizer, it is also used off-label as an antidepressant augmentation strategy.
Specifically, this drug is used to treat partial seizures, focal seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures resulting from Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (severe epilepsy). It was the first drug since Lithium to be approved for usage as a mood stabilizer and is commonly used as a maintenance medication for individuals with Type-1 Bipolar disorder. It has been found effective at preventing depressive episodes in bipolar patients, but isn’t as effective at treating manic symptoms.
Although this medication can work very well at managing epileptic and bipolar symptoms, some people don’t respond well to it. Others take this drug for an extended period of time and develop debilitating side effects. There is a black box warning associated with this medication in regards to developing Steven-Johnson syndrome and other life threatening skin reactions.
It is estimated that between 5% and 10% of people who take this medication will develop skin rashes and/or have unbearable side effects (i.e. aseptic meningitis, fever, fatigue, etc.). In many cases, the side effects associated with this medication outweigh the benefits of taking it. Most people will eventually want to withdraw from this drug.
Factors that influence Lamictal withdrawal include…
When it comes to withdrawing from any drug, there are going to likely be discontinuation symptoms. There are various factors that will play a role in determining the severity and duration of these symptoms. Factors such as: how long you took the drug, your dosage, whether you quit cold turkey, and personal withdrawal sensitivity can influence your discontinuation experience.
1. Time Span
How long have you been taking Lamictal? In general, people that have taken the time to titrate up to a therapeutic dose and have been on it for an extended period of time are going to become dependent on this drug for everyday functioning. When you consistently deliver a drug to your body and brain over an extended period of time, it will get used to having the drug influence its functioning.
Some would argue that using any drug for a long period of time creates dependency. The longer you have been on the drug, the more difficulty you are going to have adjusting to functioning (both physical and psychological) without it.
2. Dosage (200 mg to 400 mg)
Most people that are on Lamictal are on a dose between 200 mg and 400 mg. There are obviously individuals that are taking over 400 mg. People tend to titrate up to a dose that provides the most therapeutic effects. In general, the higher the dose that you are taking of this drug, the more intense the withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, withdrawal from a higher dose is thought to take longer in regards to tapering than withdrawal from a lower dose.
3. Cold Turkey vs. Tapering
In order to reduce severe withdrawal symptoms, it is important to titrate down from your current dose (i.e. conduct a taper). Tapering will give your body some time to gradually adjust to less of the drug. If you quit cold turkey, it can send both your body and brain into a chaotic state because they will be expecting to receive the drug.
People that have been taking Lamictal for an extended period of time have had to titrate up to their current dose. Therefore quitting cold turkey gives your body no time to readjust itself and is likely going to yield the most extreme withdrawal symptoms. Work with your doctor to come up with some sort of tapering protocol based on your current dosage so that you minimize your withdrawal.
For example, if you are at 400 mg, you may want to gradually reduce your dosage over the course of a 2 month period. It is also important to make adjustments in withdrawal based on how well you are coping. If you reduce your dosage by 50 mg and it feels like too much, you may want to go down by only 25 mg. During withdrawal, the name of the game is doing what works best for you.
4. Individual Factors
It is important to note that there are individual factors that play a role in withdrawal from every drug – Lamictal is no different. Some people may experience very minimal symptoms when they quit taking this drug, while others may experience severe symptoms. Withdrawal sensitivity is different depending on the person and that individual’s circumstances.
One person may have more social support, better habits, and a better tapering plan than another. Someone else may have a great tapering protocol, but that individual may be hypersensitive to withdrawal symptoms. It is important to recognize that how quickly you recover from withdrawal will largely depend on you as an individual – therefore it’s important not to compare how quickly you recover with others; you know your body and experience better than anyone.
Lamictal Withdrawal Symptoms: List of Possibilities
Below are some common withdrawal symptoms that you may experience upon discontinuation of Lamictal. Keep in mind that everyone has a unique withdrawal experience and that your symptoms may not be the same severity as someone else going through the same withdrawal. Although it is important to know what symptoms are caused by withdrawal, it is also important not to psyche yourself out.
- Anger: Certain individuals report having strong feelings of anger that emerge during withdrawal. If you are feeling excessive anger, realize that this can be a very tricky symptom to manage. When you get really angry, try to take a look at your situation from a third person perspective – the anger is a result of withdrawal. This anger should subside after a few weeks and/or improve with time.
- Anxiety: A very common symptom associated with discontinuation of this drug is that of anxiety. You may feel more nervous than you normally do during withdrawal. This anxiety may become excessive and/or lead to panic attacks. The best way to combat anxiety is to engage in relaxation exercises and focus on healthy activities to lower your arousal. Recognize that until your neurotransmitters correct the imbalance that is inevitable when coming off of a medication, the anxiety will persist.
- Balance problems: Some individuals have reported that they have trouble with balance when coming off of Lamictal. In some cases this could be due to too rapid of withdrawal, but in most cases it is just another discontinuation symptom. Your physiology will need some time to return to functioning without the drug. Just know that your balance should eventually recover.
- Bipolar symptoms: Individuals that are on this drug to help manage mood cycling associated with bioplar disorder may experience a re-emergence of symptoms. If you notice that you are entering into bipolar depression and/or a manic (or hypomanic) phase, it could be triggered by withdrawal. It is important to work with your psychiatrist so that you don’t have to deal with a re-emergence of bipolar cycling.
- Concentration problems: Many individuals experience impaired cognition and focus when they quit taking this drug. Not only are you going to be dealing with an array of physical symptoms, you may also have to cope with poor concentration for awhile. Your cognition and ability to concentrate should recover.
- Depression: Some people report that when they withdraw from this medication, they spiral down into a very deep depression. Just know that this is very common and withdrawal from most psychiatric drugs leads to feelings of depression that can sometimes seem insurmountable. The deep depression that is caused by withdrawal will not last forever.
- Dizziness: Do you feel dizzy after quitting this drug? It could be due to the fact that you tapered too quickly and/or quit cold turkey. With that said, general dizziness is an extremely common symptom. It is difficult to deal with and frustrating because your doctor will likely not be able to relate to this feeling when you describe it.
- Fatigue: A lot of people report feeling excessive lethargy and overall fatigue when they stop taking Lamictal. If the drug was giving them some energy prior to taking it, this could be a counter-effect. In most cases, the fatigue is simply due to the brain and body trying to readjust and function without the drug that it had been receiving for a period of time.
- Headaches: Many people have reported experiencing intense headaches (i.e. migraines) when they come off of Lamictal. Just know that this is a very common symptom to experience when you stop taking this drug. If they become bad, do your best to relax, drink plenty of water, and consider headache relief (over the counter).
- Irritability: If you feel excessively irritable and every little thing is making you mad, aggressive, and frustrated, it is likely due to the fact that you are coming off of a medication. Unless you were highly irritable prior to taking the drug as well, the experience of irritability can be chalked up to withdrawal.
- Mood swings: If you are bipolar and quit taking this drug that was used to stabilize your mood, it is obvious that you could experience mood swings immediately upon discontinuation. If you experience more severe mood swings than prior to taking the medication, it is likely due to the fact that some sort of imbalance was created by the drug. If you don’t have bipolar disorder and are having mood swings, just know that it’s a very common experience during withdrawal.
- Nausea: Some individuals report feeling nauseated when they stop taking this drug. There is not really much that can be done to ease this particular symptom other than conducting a slow, tapered withdrawal.
- Tingling: Many people report tingling sensations throughout their body when they initially stop taking Lamictal or miss a dose. This tingling may continue for a week or two, but eventually should get better as your body adjusts to functioning without the drug.
- Vomiting: Yes there are cases of people exhibiting flu-like symptoms when they stop taking this drug. The combination of nausea and dizziness can pack a mean punch that leads some individuals to actually vomit. Keep in mind that this is a less common symptom, but it shouldn’t last more than a week after you withdraw.
Lamictal Withdrawal Duration: How long does it last?
Withdrawal from Lamictal will vary depending on the person. There is no specific withdrawal duration that universally applies to everyone. As I already mentioned, there are a variety of important factors that will play a role in determining how long you experience withdrawal symptoms as well as how severe they are. Someone who has taken this drug for many years at a substantial dose may have a very difficult time coming off of it compared to someone who has been on it at a lower dose for a short period of time.
Most people report feeling back to normal after 4 to 6 weeks of the drug being out of their system. As a general rule of thumb for more extreme withdrawal, I recommend judging symptoms after 90 days (3 months) of withdrawal. If you are transitioning to a different medication, the new medication that you are on may ease and/or mask the symptoms of Lamictal withdrawal. Many doctors may discount your reports of experiencing symptoms when you stop taking this drug.
I always recommend trusting your own experience in regards to symptoms. If you know that you are experiencing withdrawal or some sort of discontinuation syndrome, you probably are. Additionally don’t compare your withdrawal with that of others on forums – everyone is likely to have a different experience. Your best bet for ensuring quick recovery from withdrawal symptoms is to recognize them and do your best to cope with them knowing that you will eventually experience a full recovery.
Hello Everyone I am Tim… I have been on Lamotrigine for 5 years now… No history in my family… I am an inventor and business man as well as a family man. At first I had a grand mal seizure then because of taking off the medicine to generic and different version I had 2 more small seizures… the room spun and become very uncomfortable and made me very nervous…
I have been on the med for around 5 years now at 200mg twice a day. My doctor recently did a blood test and said I was low and that the medicine is effective as low as you are… so he gave me 25mg twice a day to increase my level to normal… I forgot to take them and have been thinking of getting off the medicine… the only thing stopping me is how the seizures effected my family and I need to drive… I am in fear of having another seizure for that reason…
The doctor said he recommended the head thing to sleep and wear at night to see if I am having small ones during sleep then we can discuss weaning off the meds which sounds like I have already been doing so for 5 months now since I forgot to take the increased 25mg meds twice a day. So this is where I am at… I am also under stress daily for operating a stressful business. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Tim
I’ve been on this for 10 years. 150mg twice a day. The other morning a ran out so missed a dose. The next morning I had a fit. Normally late nights and drink cause them! It’s been 18 months since my last one and was soon to be the longest I’ve gone seizure free. So it has been playing on my mind loads. Then bang I had one. I’m gutted. So hoping it was just that I missed a dose and not a sign I need more. Also recently started drinking aloe gel and think that has had an effect. I love websites like this as I don’t know anyone with it to talk to. Hope you’re doing ok since you posted this.
I’ve been on Lamictal for about 8 yrs. for mood swings. For many years, I was not a happy lady and cried a lot about my unhappy marriage. Last year, my psychiatrist agreed with me to reduce to 100mg bid. Last month, I went on a much needed vacation and inadvertently left my meds at home. On the 4th day, I started having brain fog that caused a few problems for me. I was out of country for a week but could have purchased the drug on just about any corner.
I decided to cold turkey it. The brain fog was gone within 2 days and some fatigue set in. Other than that, I was okay. Today, I went to my psychrisist for a follow-up and to announce that I’m off of it and feel great except for a little depression that I know only lasts (for me) for a couple of days. Unfortunately, he insists that I start up again at 50mg bid and increase within 30 days. Well, I’m not gonna do it! My “head” is clearer than ever! My marriage ended, by the way…death did us part.
I loved my husband, but he was a real hard guy to live with until he became terminally ill 7 years ago. The grieving may take awhile, but there is no remorse except that maybe I should have taken Lamictal the day after the wedding. Bottom line: Lamictal worked for me. I’m hoping this rx in my mental health medical records that the Feds can acquire could be cause denial of my 2nd Amendment rights. That’s another google for sure. Take care everybody. God bless.
Great article but I am experiencing certain symptoms not on the list. Extreme light sensitivity, especially to artificial lighting (headlights, store signs, lamp posts etc…) it’s really bad at night. Plus hot flashes and I feel like I have the flu sometimes.
On 9-16-15 (Day 1) I had bariatric surgery. The doctor was aware I had taken my Lamictal that morning & medically approved. I did not have any on Days 2 and 3. Day 3 afternoon is when I was released. By the afternoon of Day 2 and during the rest of my stay on Day 3, I was suffering from discontinuation syndrome and making everyone around me (including myself) miserable with my mood swings, crying, and overall feeling of anxious doom if I didn’t take my meds!
I TOTALLY went off on the med staff with my manic/depressive actions which quite a few were unfortunately directed at them, mostly for them not being able to answer the simple question, “Why haven’t I had my meds? Where ARE they? Do you know what happens if I don’t HAVE them?!” Med staff AND my doctor finally said, “Well, you’re going home anyway today, so you can take them at home.” I’m REALLY surprised I didn’t lunge for the throat of the person who said that.
REALLY surprised.
Next time I’m in the hospital, I’m bringing my own. I don’t care what they would say-it’s my body so BACK OFF. BTW I am also on Buspar and Pristiq as well as Lamictal.
I was on 200 mg lamictal for the past 5 years having being diagnosed with mood swings and BP. I asked my Dr to come off and reduced it by 50mg to 150mg for the first 2 weeks then down to 100mg and now I’m on 5omg waiting to reduce it to 25mg. As I reduce the dose I have experienced fussy feeling in my head, balance issues and very dizzy along with pressure in front of my head along with vivid nightmares.
I was OK until I reduced from 100 mg to 50mg then the withdrawal symptoms started. But I will stick with it as I am now in control of my moods having stopped drinking 5 years ago. This site has helped me and know that I am not along.
The first week after being off lamictal completely was beyond awful. That would be an understatement. However, I hit the week mark and I mentally was fine. But physically I am just dragging! I am so tired all the time. I am a healthy individual otherwise. So happy to see this fatigue/exhaustion is normal.
I previously attempted to taper myself off of Lamictal but found the withdrawal too extreme. This time I spoke with my psychiatrist and we decided to add Adderall for the withdrawal symptoms. It has been extremely helpful with the fatigue and depression that I experienced during my first attempt.
Please don’t take adderall as it is an amphetamine and other drugs with cause complications even worse than lamictal which I took for 15 years. I have withdrawal but the clonazepam one was even worse. I spoke is mental hospitals for about three years until the government abolished the program. I have a mild to moderate bipolar disorder, but I prefer to deal with the illness and also get acupuncture which I highly recommend. I think that we should avoid medicine in general unless in certain circumstances as if we try to or actually harm ourselves or others.
I have been taking 200 mg of lamictal for about 10 years. When I attempted to slowly get off lamictal, I would get what felt like a brain explosion while I was in a deep sleep, and would be shocked awake with the feeling of disorientation and tingling.
Experienced the same!
I had been on 200mg/day for 10 years. To stop it.. I went down 25mg every 2 weeks (it took 4 months). When I got all the way down to just one pill (25mg) a day “panic” kicked in for the first time. I stopped taking just one a day immediately. It has now been 30 days and i must state that these 30 days have been the worst ever.
You must prepare yourself to suffer through the first 30 days you are completely off lamictal. I’m currently taking Charlotte’s Web CBD oil for my epilepsy. I’m an adult and I take 6ml per day. I suggest you visit this site (theroc.us). They help you through this entire process! :-)
I’ve been taking lamotrogine for 30 years, it was approved by the FDA in ’94, but I was in the initial drug study that lasted about 8 years. It stopped my gran mal’s, but never helped my partials. 3 months ago, I started CBD oil, and have not had a seizure of any kind since. I started the process of going off lamictal, ushered in by another rash, and BAM! whoa, dizzy, unresponsive staring, slurred speech, angry, (me! but, I’m a teddy bear!), the whole deal.
Makes me want to get off it so much more…. and makes me so angry that Marijuana wasn’t the drug that was being studied. It is what has stopped my seizures. I guess there wasn’t enough profit in it. Good luck everyone. And lets think twice before buying into the pharmaceutical hype.
Hi Greg, thanks for your story. I also have epilepsy and coming off Lamictal which I’ve been on for about 8 years. It never controlled my partial seizures and I’m starting to try CBD oil. Can I ask what CBD dosage you’re taking and THC content? Tom
Signed myself in to a psyche hospital where they immediately stopped 300 mg daily of lamotrigine, and started Wellbutrin. Within 3 days I was having anaphylaxis reaction and needed 2 injections of Epi. Very scary. My new doctor says stopping like that may make me allergic to everything, including wellbutrin. Good thing I was in a hospital! Now I am taking Cymbalta but not sure yet if it will help. Also, how do I know if I have bipolar depression or depression? Apparently there is a difference but I don’t understand. No mania though.
Please don’t take Cymbalta; it’s worse and harder to drop. I gave speeches in the mental health community for about three years until the government disbanded the program. I have mild to moderate bipolar disorder and prefer to suffer from the illness than harmful meds. Also I urge you to go to acupuncture.
India as a country is rich in tradition as well as old ways that are hard to mend…one of which is the taboo part of psychological illnesses which even a current generation Indian may not want to address (with counselling, psychiatric support or whatever). It’s living in denial forever. I was diagnosed with depression and bipolar around 15 years back, and I have been on so many medicines.
Right now I am on Lamotrigine 100mg (50mg morning, 50mg night), Buspirone 10mg (5mg M, 5 mg N), Fluoxetine 80mg every night. I am feeling much better, but owing to a my constant travel I had to switch my psychiatrists once. The second person is the person who put me on this (above)…problem is he’s extremely closed as a person, doesn’t want to discuss the why’s of the problem much, all he does is ask me for symptoms, a little questioning here and there, he makes a lot of notes I guess, and then prescribes.
While this is uneasy for me (my previous doc would walk me through my symptoms, the whats, the way the medicines will support me, for how long, danger zones, etc.), I get into a lot of mental trouble if I attempt to get back to my older doc (really don’t understand). My current doc prescribes and also provides the medicines himself, so there isn’t a prescription, but the medicines seem to get me out of trouble.
Now I ran out of Lamotrigine, did a tapering from 100mg to 50mg for 3 days, and then — yeah, pretty much cold turkey. Now, flu like symptoms, fatigue, lack of interest in doing anything, lethargy mostly…. Waiting for that doc to ship my supply of meds again – hopefully it will get me better.
Thank you for your site. Amazing. Helpful. Relevant. Strong writing. I was only on 25 mg and dropped it all 5 days ago. Fatigue like nothing I’ve experienced (even with Klonopin) toppled me. Took 12.5 mg today and within 20 minutes, felt close to normal. Will stay here for a bit before dropping more. Thought I was done with the nasty withdrawals when I dropped Klonopin. Ha! Who knew? Apparently you did. Thanks!
I work for a candy store and the withdrawal actually kept me from being able to do my job. Unfortunately I have to be on this until no can find something else as I was recently diagnosed with bipolar 2 April 2014. I haven’t been on meds like this before and hate the feeling. Especially when it interferes with my job, and I am the assistant manager and acting manager when the main is not in.
Hello! This article was very helpful when I was experiencing withdrawals. I was on 400mg of lamitrogone and 1mg Ativan. I cut 400 in half for 2 months and that in half for 2 months and that in half again. Cut the Ativan in half for 2mths. It’s now been 35 days off both drugs and I’m still ill. I wish I knew a timeframe of getting better. The worst is the feeling of low blood sugar and I just ate an hour or two earlier and when tested my blood sugar is fine.
That turns into anxiety and panic. Dizziness is an everyday thing, but the fish oil I take helps a lot now. Mainly feel out of balance, head in clouds, eyes hurt, head hurts. I can’t believe after tapering so long I’m still feeling so lousy! Thanks for the article it helped me see I’m not the only one doctors think are “crazy” when you’re trying to explain to them you feel ill but all the testing proves your healthy.
So, due to a lack of insurance coverage and a mental-health provider, I am ending my romance with limotrigine. I’ve been on a daily dosage of 150mg for about a year but titrated as high as 250 and as low as 100. Last week I cut to 100mg daily and this week I’m at 50mg. It’s a super-rapid detox but I am getting the “drug-seeker” treatment at the pharmacy so I’m all set trying to get more.
I’ve been depressed, anxious, angry, confused and generally irritable. My girlfriend insists that these feelings aren’t anything new and I just need to suck it up. Had a nasty bout with nausea this am: THAT was new and exciting. I suffer arthritis/carpal tunnel and have fused bones in my right hand so I can’t really discern any new numbness, tingling or severe pain in my hands/arms but it certainly doesn’t feel any less painful.
I don’t drink, but I do smoke mj frequently – haven’t found any other relief. I bookmarked this page – and want to thank everybody for sharing their experiences; I am going to be reading and rereading for strength for at least a few weeks.
Thanks for the information! I was taking 200mg at night for just over a year. I quit cold turkey 3 weeks ago and, though I expected some side effects, the dizziness was a little more than I anticipated, but has been tolerable. However, I did notice after two weeks that a few muscle pains that have been plaguing me for about a year now are gone. I was aware of the rash (which I never got), but not the muscle pain as a side-effect of use. I chalked it up to a sports injury and getting older, but have been shocked that a daily pain which has kept me from exercising regularly and often from sleeping well has just gone away.
I came off Lamictal cold turkey (BAD IDEA) I have been off for about three weeks now. I was on 400 mg a day. Week one was hell!!!! Angry dizzy nausea I actually threw up a few times. Fingers and toes are numb can’t think straight. I have thoughts in my brain and at times it takes a minute for them to form words to speak if that makes any sense. Still fog brained. Symptoms are subsiding slowly but lingering. I am miserable can’t wait until I feel somewhat human again.
Hi Andrea, I just found this site and am encouraged to know I am not alone in this battle. How are you doing? I went cold turkey off 400 mg lamotragine/lamictal on July 15. Then, I’ll call it a relapse, things got so hard, I took 100 mg. on July 25 and again on the July 28. So now it has been 5 days and I hope never to take another one. Things I have found helpful at relieving the acute distress is ginger ale for the nausea. A lot of protein and water seem to immediately help. Swimming, walking and baths help enormously. Most foods do not taste very good.
For the first two weeks I was smelling a horrible smell. (detox?) In many ways my awareness and senses are very acute, in fact distressingly so. I figure this will be like stopping smoking which was the hardest thing I ever did (back in 1987). I have received strong support from a few dear friends, my counselor, my sponsors in both AA and Al-anon and particularly my practitioner and teacher in Christian Science. Every single phone call and event seems to be vital. I am grateful and hopeful. Louise
Louise — Exactly!! Thanks for ‘remedies.’ They are all we have when we undertake this journey off L. I happen to swim, walk, and take many hot baths to ease symptoms so I immediately id’ed with you.
My 19 year old son with Autism was on Lamictal for 6 months and it actually made him have more seizures and mood swings. Its been 4 months since he’s been off and he is doing better, but still has occasional episodes of anxiety and aggression. These aggressive episodes come out of no where. I believe the “brain zaps”…that’s what it looks like to me. When he first came off, he had diarrhea for 10 days and got a rash.
Our doctor had him withdraw from 200 mg to 0 mg of lamictal over a weekend! Not sure that was a good idea. The aggression that he has now is less severe and only lasts for a few minutes. He is non verbal so any withdrawal symptoms are tough for him because he doesn’t understand what is going on in his brain or body. We are not adding any other AEDs right now to his trileptal that he’s been on for 5 years.
Every time we try a 2nd seizure med, he has terrible side effects, it’s not worth it! I do believe that it takes months to a year to get off lamictal based on what I am seeing with him. Hopefully each day and week, he will continue to recover!
I’ve been off Lamotrigine/Lamictal 3 weeks, 2 days now. Reading all the comments here has really helped to know yes it is OK to still have these waves of nausea, apathy and dizziness. I was prescribed L after having migraine aura for over 2 weeks, which included 2 hospital emergency checkups for stroke and further emergency appointments with neurologists and a MRI. All clear, just migraine deciding to be rare and difficult and more like epilepsy.
So after a week the L kicked in, thank god, was able to talk coherently again. I don’t regret being on it, since I was in such a bad state beforehand. The fogginess of withdrawal though, makes me scared I’m about to have another bad bout of aura, and end up in hospital again, or have to start again. I was scared to come off it, but now also glad, as I was increasingly feeling detached from people close to me, and just not feeling bothered by it.
I feel emotionally more like myself, but then I’ll have a day where I just feel like coping with anything is like climbing a mountain, such hard work. I was on it for 7 months, and at the end I was doing so well at so many things – eating right, exercising more, on top of work and studies…now I feel ill, dizzy and sick after long walks, the pleasure has gone from it. I’ve also made permanent lifestyle changes, such as not drinking, so hopefully this will help. Fingers crossed this will end. 4 to 6 weeks is a long time.
Jo: update? I have started to wean and took ten percent off and after four weeks, the brain fog is intense. Hope?
Dear All, I’m coming off of Lamictal so that I can start a family with my husband. I have been taking 200 mg/day for about 10 years for BP. My husband and my family are surrounding me with love and support, but it’s difficult to explain these withdrawal symptoms to someone who doesn’t feel them. I was so grateful to find this blog.
Everyone’s post contains the hard truth, but also hope. My symptoms have included fatigue, nausea, headaches, anxiety, rage, depression, loss of concentration, and insomnia. Does anyone know of a support group out there? Is there anyone who talks or is willing to talk via e-mail? With gratitude and hope, Katie.
I started on Lamictal at 25, then 50 and then 100mg. It was prescribed for mood swings and bipolar disorder. I did very well on the medication for the first 7 weeks. I started feeling hopeful that I could get my life back again.
During week 8 I started getting itching on my forearms and shins but I attributed that to working in the garden for about 2 hours a day and the sudden increase in heat and humidity. By week 9 the itching had extended through my entire arms and legs. I spent most of my energy trying not to scratch the skin off of my body and by night time I couldn’t take it. I’d scratch for a full hour before I had to stop myself and attempt to sleep.
I saw my psychiatrist and the rash was so subtle that she had me continue the medication and try Benadryl and hydrocortisone cream to manage the itching. Those two medications didn’t touch the itching so I scheduled a dermatology appointment to see what they thought.
By the time I got in with dermatology the rash had spread to my shoulders and up my back. Plus the weather cooled down and I hadn’t gardened in 4 days. It was clearly the Lamictal. Thank goodness for prescription anti-itch cream from the dermatologist. The itching was driving me over the edge.
Now I’m dealing with either the side effects of two doses (100mg each) of Risperdal or withdrawal after 9 weeks on Lamictal. Starting one medication before getting the Lamictal out of my system was not a good idea. That’s the last time I follow my psychiatrist’s advice to stop one med and start another the next day. The fatigue, stupor, headaches and dizziness are a big drain, but the nausea and vomiting are the worst part. It’s hard to explain to friends and family that I’m sick but not contagious.
Even though this withdrawal is really hard, I’m looking into withdrawing from Effexor next. That medication took away my anxiety but it took all of my motivation with it. I’ve been a lump for 2 years now. The posts and comments on this site have taught me a lot and brought me some hope for a future with less but more appropriate medication.
Hi, please see any ER or Urgent Care re your rash because it can be life threatening. A black box warning about the rash. Let me know you are ok and that you received this. The doctors say discontinue all lamictal immediately if you get a rash. Also no matter what you do, please do not try to come of Effexor until you are completely over all symptoms of getting off lamictal for at least six weeks. Effexor is a different ball game. Ginger ale helps the nausea. Louise
I’ve been tapering off of 600mg for the last couple of months, stepping down 50 every other week. I’m currently at 300-350 mg, depending how desperate I feel for the drug. I’ve had extreme mood swings, confusion and have began to withdraw from life in general. I do think it’s the withdrawal symptoms that are making me act this way, but I always have a fear of maybe I am “just this way,” what I feel like is a moody raving maniac with no motivation for life.
I was on lamictal for 11 years, beginning at 100mg working my way up to the 600mg. I’m not even sure how that happened looking back. I saw a psychiatrist once for depression and he diagnosed me as bipolar. I didn’t see another psychiatrist until a couple of months ago to “re-evaluate”. Basically my family doctors have been refilling and even upping my dosage over the last 10 years or so. I feel like such an idiot. Why did I not question what I was being put on in the first place?
Why didn’t I do more research? I feel like I have caused permanent damage to myself, I’m afraid these feelings won’t go away. I see the most common doses are 200mg to 400mg. The reason that I went from 400mg to 600mg is that I told my family doctor I was experiencing withdrawals in the afternoon, so his solution was just to take some more…this stinks.
This post has been really helpful and thank you for those who have been so honest and shared your experiences. I was on 400mg and dropped to 200mg 2 years ago. Now I am weaning off and I’m on 75mg. The first few weeks were bearable, I would go through the phase on anxiety, feeling ill, tiredness, moodiness, anger and then 3 days later I’d much better.
For the last two weeks I’ve been sitting on 75mg and I feel terrible, most of the time. Anxiety, extreme tiredness, irritability, anger (so much of that), tingling feeling, very sore jaw, headaches, suppressed appetite. I’ve been drawing myself away from going out in public. Feel like I’m stuck in a hole in hell and I don’t have any motivation to start pulling myself out.
I’m thinking of going cold turkey from here since I don’t really think my symptoms can get worse at this point. If I could just get rid of this anxiety. I am seeing my doc tomorrow, I am really hoping she can help in terms of my anxiety. I eat really well and I do yoga and meditate, but I don’t feel like it helps anymore. It’s a phase and we’re really strong and brave to push through this. See you on the other side – Lamictal free.
How are you doing and did you get any help with anxiety? I have found that magnesium bisglycinate powder is a great help to me. I take 1/4 tsp every morning and evening. Helps throughout the day and let’s me sleep at night. Perhaps this will help you. :)
Thank you so much for this article and for all of your replies!! It gives me the needed motivation and positive focus I need right now. I have been on Lamictal for over 10 years at various doses. I started traveling and teaching abroad and am now in a country that doesn’t provide it. Before moving here I had decreased the medication a bit anyway. I am ready to be drug free and this seemed like the perfect time to do it.
Luckily I started the rest of the decreases while I still had enough pills left so I didn’t have to quit cold turkey. I am being very watchful of symptoms of withdrawal and my mood. I told my family if I miss one day of work from this I will seek help. So far its been OK. I have been feeling a bit light headed and SUPER fatigued but I am pushing on!! yoga and meditation help a lot with the other symptoms. I also upped my supplements/vitamins.
It’s a scary thing being so reliant on such a powerful drug.
I really hope I am OK with the final decrease. I am at 25mg now (well I am alternating 5 and 50 every other day for this week) .I have the rest of this month to get totally off completely. I hope there are more success stories for taking Lamictal for a long time and getting off completely. Keep strong fellow sufferers. Be strong and be careful! :) Cheers!
Thank you so much for this information. Took 300mg at night for bipolar for 8 years. I dosed off by a quarter tablet (150 mg tablets) each week. I am now off the medication as of this week. I am experiencing the lack of concentration, restless sleep, tingling sensation in my head, lethargy, and irritability. I felt some of these during the weeks while I was dosing down and they went away by midweek as my body got used to the lesser dosage.
I very, very rarely missed a dose and these were similar symptoms that I felt if I missed a dose so I am encouraged that this will go away. It’s hard to be patient, but it sounds like this could take a few weeks. I made lifestyle changes in diet, exercise, and no alcohol which I am hoping will help with stabilization. I will be drug free again!
Update: I have been off of the Lamictal for a month now. Like others on the site, I still struggle with fatigue, and I wake up every morning with this “cloudy” feeling in my head and sometimes I have the tingling sensation as well. I certainly feel more withdrawn than when I was on the medication and have a reduced interest in sex. I am feeling more irritable and less patient and, like others here, I have bouts of anxiety.
On a positive, I think that my concentration is returning and I seem to be able to think more clearly and quickly when the cloudiness subsides. I really believe that the medication reduced my reaction times and ability to think on my feet, so I am encouraged to say that some of that is returning. I am still keeping that 6-9 month goal in mind when dealing with these symptoms, remembering that I put 300mg of this stuff into my body for 8 years. Thanks again for this resource.
Thanks for the information. I’ve been on this drug for 6 years and a high dose for the past 2 years. The side effects had gotten bad and I finally said to my husband I was going off it. I was having panic attacks and suicidal thoughts. I thought I was going to scratch my skin off. I couldn’t focus and got little done in a day. Since going off it I am getting more of my life back. However, the withdrawal symptoms of getting off. The first dose down was fine, the next dose down I was up all night with irritability and couldn’t sleep and the itching was unbelievable. This dose down I’ve been sick to my stomach, no focus, and tired. I can’t wait until I’m off this drug completely. I’ll be drug free! Yay!
Wow this is one of the few pages I have found that gives me any hope. I was on Lamictal from July 2014-February 2015 for GAD (never should’ve been prescribed!). In October the doctor increased by dose from 300mg to 350mg due to “moodiness.” About a week afterwards, I began feeling very strange – lightheaded, dizziness, foggy brain and tingling. I went back down to 300mg and seemed to be OK for awhile until he put be back up to 350mg.
I was also going through some medical stuff in October so thought maybe it wasn’t the Lamictal after all. However, I haven’t been the same since going up the second time. About 90% of my days since December have been hellish, especially with the lightheadedness, headaches, earaches, tingling, anxiety and more. I titrated down by 50mg a week and have been off the drug completely since February 13, 2015 but I am still having the symptoms.
It’s so bad that I have undergone an MRI and a multitude of blood tests – all negative – to see if there could be an underlying medical issue. Has anyone else felt “withdrawal” symptoms so strongly for so long after stopping the drug? I do have good days but I’m feeling very frustrated and hopeless. The doctors are denying that the symptoms could be related to the drug at this point.
They absolutely could be related to protracted withdrawals. Your physiology may have been strongly affected by the drug and is still in repair-mode along with your neurochemistry. The problem is that the withdrawal symptoms are subject to individual variation and can be exacerbated by anxiety… which is usually intensified when we are told there are “no withdrawals” from a doctor, but we feel/notice something is wrong.
I went through the baggage of: blood tests, MRI scans, doc appointments, etc. after coming off of a psychotropic drug. I was convinced that there HAD to be something severely wrong (e.g. a tumor) because of the symptoms I experienced. It was merely an intense, protracted withdrawal, exacerbated by anxiety… Do what you can to heal your physiology, live healthy, and try not to focus on the symptoms if doctors have reassured you that you are “healthy.” Best of luck.
Dear GLOOM, I would like to thank you for having the best medical blog/website I have ever seen. It is so clear and easy to read. I love how you calmly explain each withdrawal effect as a possibility. Somehow that wording is comforting. Instead of an overwhelming laundry list of symptoms, you give an explanation of why you might be experiencing that symptom. And I love how you cite research and use technical and medical terms to describe how neurotransmitters work.
I’ve never found anything this medically sensible on the internet before. I’m blown away by a site that treats me like a whole person AND like an intelligent person. I’ve been sending your link to my therapist and to my friends with mental illness. I don’t feel comfortable posting it on facebook at this time, but I will consider it.
I can’t express enough how grateful I am for this resource. I have been reading post after post over the last 3 days of nausea and vomiting from Lamictal withdrawal. What else can I do productively with this time? Thank you, thank you, thank you. -Melinda
Melinda: so very glad to read about how you were having stomach problems with Lamictal withdrawal. My wife has been on Lamictal 150mg/day for 4 years. She wasn’t having any problems with that dose but was having trouble sleeping and the Dr. thought she might try 200mg/day. She went up by 25mg/day for 2 weeks, then another 25mg.
She had night and day sweating and shortness of breath and she tried to acclimate to this for about 3 months. We decided to go back to the 150mg/day. We withdrew slowly about 12.mg/day and now she has been on 150mg/day for about 4 weeks. My question is, she seems to have lost all her appetite, lost 35 lbs and I really have to push food at her to eat. Maybe this will dissipate in time since some are saying 90 days is a rule of thumb for coming off Lamictal.
We are only trying to decrease by 50mg and having this appetite problem? We have been looking into appetite stimulants and wondering what can be done for her eating. Maybe you or someone out there might have experienced this to some degree and might have some encouragement. Thanks so much for your blog. Peter
I’m so glad I found this page. I have been weaning from 100mg to 50mg for maybe over a week now. I have been so dizzy, nauseated, ANGRY and increased anxiety. I didn’t have a clue it was possibly from withdrawals from this med! Holy cow! I feel pretty crappy and I have 3 more “mind” drugs I want to get completely off of. I swear to gawd, the prescriber has no clue how these drugs effect you and what happens when you wean. I told my therapist and she never warned me about any of this or any other side effects when going on anything. I now always ask the pharmacist.
I’ve recently discontinued use of this drug, I wasn’t on a very high dose (severe rash occurred) I’ve been taking it at small doses and was working my way up ( only made it to 100mg) had to cut it cold turkey and I have been nauseous since. That was 2 weeks ago, the nausea is on and off, some days I can eat some I can’t.
I find it messes with my sleep the most as the nausea seems to be at its worst around midnight. This was very informative because at first I didn’t know that nausea was a withdrawal symptom until reading this. That explains a lot :) at least I know the cause now so I can stop wondering why my stomach hates me lol.
I know what you mean. I’ve been so dizzy, irritable and very sick to the stomach. Not knowing why. Then the last couple days I could punch the world in its face, kind of angry state. It’ll get better for us both.
I hate to read that others are experiencing nausea after stopping this medicine, but I also find it comforting. Yesterday was day two without Lamictal and I threw up all day. Today I’ve been quite nauseated but haven’t thrown up…yet. I thought I’d feel sad or maybe manic, but I never anticipated the vomiting, especially after only 9 weeks on the medicine.
A really helpful thread. Thanks guys. I just quit 300mg Lamictal COLD TURKEY. I’m suffering with, EXTREME FATIGUE and have an EXTREME FACIAL RASH. I have been taking it for 5 months as a mood stabilizer. I also take Venlafaxine 225mg, Quetiapine 400mg for depression/anxiety. I quit alcohol 6 months ago and my immunity is blown. Week 2: Taking 25mg. I awoke with a swollen eye worthy of a rumble with Mike Tyson. I took antihistamine and it disappeared in 3 days so I continued with the drug. Week 4: Taking 75mg. I had developed what I thought was a patch of stubborn facial eczema around my lower cheek area. This did not go away, but I thought nothing of it.
Month 4: My consultant increased dosage from 200mg to 300mg. Month 5: All hell broke loose on my face. The muzzle or beard area of my face was a solid inflamed mass of redness. I looked like I had been burned, the skin felt thick, it was weeping and peeling, hot and sore. I added ice and antihistamines followed by steroid creams and topical antibiotics. Only the ice helped. After a couple of days of wondering what the heck was going on, whilst Googling I was reminded of the Lamictal rash and quit Lamictal cold turkey. I got antibiotics for my face.
They helped slightly with the redness, but the blisters still remain. My consultant didn’t think it was SJS rash (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) and advised the antibiotics. I am left with a really ugly itchy rash that sits deep into the dermis (skin) – it isn’t just a surface rash. I have tried everything (even household bleach! I know I know, but with some degree of success). Nobody can tell me if this is related to the Lamictal or what I should do with it. I’m scaring young children, no kidding. Has anybody had rash experience?
I also have been completely knocked out with fatigue. Getting up to let my dog into the garden is an extreme effort and I can sleep until after 3 in the afternoon. I feel stiff, am walking like an old woman, dizzy, nauseous, zero appetite and weight loss. That is never a bad thing, but I completely agree, more warning should have been given about this toxic drug. If you are reading this wondering whether to take it, don’t. It’s just not worth it. Get well soon guys. -Cheryl
That sounds awful, Cheryl. I’m so sorry that you didn’t get the warning about the rash that can happen with this drug. My psychiatrist and the pharmacist both told me that this drug had a black box warning for rash with the use of Lamictal. They told me that the rash could cause death or disfigurement in rare cases and any rash was cause to see the doctor right away and to stop taking the drug. Have you seen a dermatologist?
My son is withdrawing from Lamictal 150 mg. The drug had caused heart palpitations and extreme weakness so doctor said to go cold turkey. He has flu like symptoms and excessive thirst. Weight loss is also a problem. This is day seven off the drug. If I had known the side effects I would never have advised him to take it.
I have been taking 100 mg for one year. I took myself down to 50, and now I have been skipping days and not taking at all. I have been using Young Living Essential Oils to stabilize my moods and especially for focus. I’d rather depend on those than the drug. I’m nervous about not having the drug because it did help me. I have to remind myself to observe my behavior. I think that’s the hardest thing… the discipline of observation and remembering why I might be feeling or acting a certain way and then refraining from acting on it. I was feeling really down a month ago and then I noticed it last night. I have been experiencing sleeplessness. Maybe the withdrawal is why. Thank you for your comments here. They’re encouraging. I pray you all experience relief, answers, and healing.
Sleeplessness… While discontinuing lamictal I have come to realize the importance of magnesium. I take magnesium bisglycinate powder…1/4 tsp morning and evening. It has made all the difference in anxiety levels and the ability to fall asleep at night. As an added bonus, no grogginess like with drugs. Hope this will help you too.
I forgot to mention how important walking is while discontinuing drugs and recovering. At least 1/2 to 1 mile per day. And be drinking lots of water to flush those drugs out. Sorry, I should have mentioned it sooner.
So good to see someone else appreciate magnesium bisglycinate. It really is a help for anxiety… I take 3/4 tsp with breakfast and supper.
I will repeat the same thoughts of others about finding this website. For months I have experienced eye twitches, not related to stress or any other trigger. They’ve also been occurring in other areas of my face, my shoulder blade and thumb. I can’t control them or will them to stop. My doctor wouldn’t pay attention to my complaints and rather than investigating that, she wanted to decrease the zoloft. I take 200mg lamotrigine and 100mg of zoloft. I’m getting ready to see a new doctor and in that time am weaning myself off of lamotrigine. Has anyone else had these twitches? I’ve read several medical cases/articles about it, but have yet to talk with anyone who has experienced this issue.
I took Lamictal for over one year at 200 mg. with 10mg lexapro. I did have eye twitches but that has been more of an annoyance. I cut back by 50 mg. every 3 weeks or so and have been completely off for about 3 weeks now. I experienced very bad anxiety and panic attacks which were new to me when I was weaning down. I never knew this was from the withdrawal but I’ve felt so awful I’ve just starting researching it.
Lately though, I’ve experienced extreme exhaustion and fatigue. I also feel very depressed. I feel like everything, including my thoughts and speech, is slowed down. My doctor just took me off lexapro which I’ve been on over 10 years and switched me to prozac since I told him how badly I felt. I try to go for walks but only when I can get the energy to actually leave the house – the fatigue is horrible!! My question is similar to someone else’s: is the deep depression/extreme fatigue part of withdrawal after being off for 3 weeks OR was do I need to get back on Lamictal?
I definitely feel worse and am not sure to wait it out a while longer or just go back to the medication. I am not bipolar but was prescribed it for depression and anxiety that hasn’t responded to SSRI’s. Any advice? Also, have others found it helpful for depression/anxiety? I can’t put up with this too much longer. I also take 25 mg. seroquel/trazodone for sleep. Thanks!
Jill – I’m in a similar boat where I’ve been taking 200mg for five years now and tapered off last week because over the last couple years the cognitive impairment was getting to be too much. For a long time I didn’t know if the impairment was due to the drug or a symptom of a depressed episode (I have BP2), but I’m convinced now that it’s the drug. I tried going off of it a couple times a year ago and it was too difficult that within a week I went back on it not knowing if what I was feeling was withdrawal symptoms or illness.
Nonetheless knowing that lamictal had good benefits for my mood and could get me to a better place than what I was feeling. So I find myself on this forum now because I’m 8 days in and feeling stupider than ever and experiencing several of the symptoms mentioned in this article. Before tapering off the lamictal my doctor suggested that I start a new medicine (trileptal) and build up to a therapeutic dose before tapering off the lamictal.
My other 2 attempts had been tapering off to nothing and then to lithium… both of which I didn’t give nearly enough time to determine if they were better options. I do think I need to be on some medicine or combination. The hardest part is the length of time you need to wait to see what works and while 2-3 months might not seem like a lot of time to most people, getting through a day with what I’m going through right now seems like a year.
The advice I’d give which I am constantly reminding myself with, is that it has to get worse before it gets better and to mentally allow yourself the time to heal/transition.
I too have experienced this. I decreased lamictal from 225 mg to 150 mg. For six weeks I had minor withdrawal. Then the panic attacks followed, where I would be clearing my throat all the time. My doctor wanted me to increase back to the 225 mg. I’ve learned to relax and doing ten to fifteen minutes of exercise has helped greatly. Let me know how you are doing.
Wow, I’ve been trying to clear my throat for the past 20 years. It comes and goes in phases, but I’ve had it most of my life… and now to find out it could be my Lamotrigine (150mg x twice per day). I’m astounded, and very annoyed. I went to a specialist who told me there was nothing in my throat and that was it.
Yes I often have twitchy eyes.
Yes twitches!! Involuntary eye movement horizontally. I want to call my doctor but instead am dosing down from 200 to 150. Foggy, dizzy, tingly, anxiety. Trying to breathe through it and call the doc. This is day 2 at 150 mg after 2 & 1/2 years on the medication.
I went from 100 to 50. Nausea, dizziness, weaknees, lots of anger, arthritic-like pain in joints. Actually, it wasn’t that bad – was bearable. But then I got diagnosed with “h pylori” (total lack of appetite and abdominal pain plus heartburn and belching) and I started 3 week long antibiotic treatment. Wow, that dropped me. Have some good moments and when I feel worse it feels like Lamictal withdrawal just more intense.
Yesterday, for the first time in a long time (18 months) I actually felt hunger and ate my potatoes with real appetite. Unfortunately, I woke up around 4am and was in a barfing state (dry heaves) for like 3 hours, popped 2 clones and slept soundly for 4 hours. Yesterday, I went out to get smokes (3 mile walk). On my way home, I felt so shifty (like a huge hangover without a headache) plus another attempt at barfing. Today, I had to go there again.
Felt shifty but better. Terribly tired, but recovered after an hour. Not the first time… I quit lithium, zoloft, Zyprexa, risperidone, gabapentin (I think), zopiclone, some benzoyl (was nasty), cipralex, and drinking (over a year ago) – all of this at really high doses (seroquel 800 mg). Now, I tapered seroquel from 300 to 100. Lovely no problems. Soon I will taper seroquel to zero. And after that Lamictal.
I have been on 200mg per day of Lamictal for about 9 years. Three months ago started to lower 25mg every two weeks until I got to 100mg per day. Have been holding on 100mg per day for a month and am now starting to lower by 25mg every two weeks again. So far fatigue and slow thinking are the biggest side effects. Will report back periodically in the future. Luckily Dr. is supportive in this and not combative. :)
I will be interested to know how you go. I have reduced at 25mg increments every two weeks from 200mg. I am now on 50mg. So far I have had about four days of feeling low and a bit foggy headed and then it cleared. I also feel a little more tired. I have upped my healthy eating and exercise and that seems to be helping with the irritability. Try juicing – it’s amazing!
Hey John, can you check in and let me know how it’s gone for you? I’ve been on 300 mg/day for four years now and have been stable, which has been a blessing. But I have my reasons for wanting to wean off of Lamictal for a period of time but I’m terrified. How did it go?
How did it go? I finished my taper last week and it’s pretty bad now.
So glad I found this article – started reducing dosage 3 days ago after being on it for 12 years and felt awful (angry, irritable, anxious, crying etc…) – feel reassured that it is most probably the effects of reducing meds, so will hopefully subside soon. Wish my consultant had warned me of this when discussed meds reduction!
I must say I feel a little better reading all the inputs on to me is a drug that should be taken off the market. I’ve gone up, and down before because of my face feeling like it’s sunburn, prickly type feelings. My Dr, yelled at me and told me to quit playing games. Well nothing has changed so I’m withdrawing myself, Started at 75mg per week or so. Now I’m at 75mg with half of that to be tapered this weekend. I have felt terrible, angry, flush faced, extreme tiredness, the list goes on.
I forgot to mention another reason I took it upon myself is my sodium was at the low limit, I like the heat, to sweat, fishing…etc. I could only last 2 maybe 3 hrs in the boat. Now the flushing is getting a little better, but all else remains the same. I’m on it for Bipolar 2 disorder, with manic depressive (reoccuring) and I’m sorry but this med seemed to be useless, and scary to take with the rash warning…etc.
I have been on 100 mgs of Lamictal for about five months. I decided to go off because I want to try to get pregnant and the withdrawal symptoms have been terrifying. I am so tired, but so restless. When I can sleep, I have terrifying vivid nightmares. I have headaches, dizziness, nausea and have been feeling angry and depressed. I was taking Lamictal because other antidepressants hadn’t worked for me. I was reluctant to take it and am now filled with regret that I did. I went down to 50 mgs for two weeks and I was OK, but now going down to 25 mgs has made me really sick.
I see that most people were taking much higher doses than I have and seem to have had less trouble tapering off. I’m really scared that I’ve done some permanent damage to my brain and when I saw others say that the withdrawal can last for up to three months I was crushed. I don’t know how I’m going to make it three months feeling this bad, but I really just want it out of my system as soon as possible. Does anyone have advice on other things I can do to ease the withdrawal symptoms? Thank you.
Hang in there! I have been taking 400mgs Lamictal for 5 years. I decided to go off Lamictal and let me tell you, it’s not easy but the first morning I took my morning pills and that little devil pill was no longer there was a huge victory and worth all the agony. As it is being said everywhere – we are all different, forget about the 3 months. Focus on the awesome kick-ass chick that you are. Yes you will feel sick and horrible but don’t compare yourself to others, it will just make you feel worse.
The fact that you are doing it and sticking it out is more than enough witness to your strength. Many people can’t even get to where you are. You have a beautiful goal… getting pregnant. Best thing you can do… Find someone you can talk to as much as possible that understands and has been through this. We all just need someone to say “I know”, who actually knows. It sounds stupid, but just talking through how you feel – sick, pain, nausea, whatever… It helps. The fatigue is the worst for me so I pumped up my vitamins and rely on my support system, you get a lot of natural remedies for a bit of a boost.
I do the silliest things to try and keep myself going. A lot of “loving” *wink wink* really helps for the anxiety and the aching body. Try and be more active – sweat it out. If have found that vitamin B (whole B family) really helps. Also get something to support your liver. Don’t look too much to meds to help you. Eat healthier. Try doing things that make you feel good. Bubble baths, massages, ICE-CREAM – seriously – ice-cream helps . And when it gets really really bad, just think about that wonderful baby you are going to hold someday soon.
This was the most positive, Encouraging post. Being prepared when symptoms appear & staying focused on my goal of why I want to get off will be critical IF I EVER DECIDE TO DO IT. I have bipolar and taking 200mg every morning with only 75 mg Effexor has kept me TOTALLY stable for 9 years. I forgot my meds on this long weekend. Wow! I’ll never take that lightly again. Reading these possible withdrawal symptoms has kept me from thinking my whole body & brain are just crashing after a few very stressful weeks. Once again, an internet Google search and an incredibly honest and caring group of people have grounded me back to stability. BLESS YOU ALL.
Ramona, detox helps tremendously! How are you today?
Hi Ramona, can you tell me if you managed to fall pregnant and if so how you are going? Hope all is well!!! We are so brave. Waiting for my general comment to be moderated – I’m 11 weeks pregnant and off lamotrigine and lexapro now for 5 – 6 weeks. It’s been very tough but I’m getting there!
I took my last dose almost two weeks ago and it’s been horrible. I too quit in order to prepare myself for pregnancy and am miserable as a result of the withdrawal. Hang in there… you’re not alone!!
Thanks Kelli – I finally got through those awful side effects it took 3 months but I did it!!! It’s worth persisting. I’m now 22 weeks and all is well apart from some insomnia which is hard work sometimes but I’m assured what I’m going through is quite normal. So, for a 44 year old with my 4th pregnancy, managing without meds I’m doing ok and I’m sure many of you are much younger!
It’s not without its challenges but support networks and professional advice are so important. I want to encourage all the pregnant ladies – it can be done!!! Post-natal management will be a watch and see. Best wishes to you all for a safe and well journey.
Thank you for sharing everyone. I have been on Lamictal for Major Depression since 12/13. My psychiatrist and I decided for me to get off of it since it actually made my depression worse. I have dropped down from 120mg to 62.5mg.s. I have been at 62.5mgs for 3 weeks now, but only in the past couple days has the withdrawal become very bad. I am now experiencing Anger, Panic Attacks, Concentration problems, Fatigue and a very deep depression (the last thing I need). My question: has anyone else experienced a delay in their withdrawal symptoms?? I actually felt better the first two weeks. Thank you.
Your last question– YES!! That is EXACTLY what happened to me after I went down to 250 mg (from 300). I didn’t really have any symptoms until two weeks later– that was exactly the amount of time it took. Reading a lot of the comments here is really encouraging, because I feel like people are talking about a lot of the same things that happened to me… and none of it ever made sense before.
I’m on Day 23 of going down to 200, and it’s encouraging to know that there will be an end to this!!! I don’t know if I ultimately even want to be off Lamictal completely… but the dose has been really high, and I would like to get to 200 mg/day; it seems to be a much more average dose to be taking. Understand, I’m not anti-med as such at all… some meds work really well for some people. This is my opinion, and others may have different opinions.
But for me… I have permanent physical brain damage from a head injury, I will always have to deal with the neurological symptoms, and I don’t EVER want to go back to the way I was before starting on Ritalin. Psych/neuro meds are very powerful, though, and they do have side effects. It’s all about balance, I think. You can end up with a much higher dose than you ever should have been taking without even realizing how you got there.
I’ve been on Lamotrigine for 7 yrs due to bipolar disorder. I stopped cold turkey after I died on my friends floor from all the meds my psychiatrist and neurological surgeon had me on. Mixed with a glass of wine and a hot tub. Now I have seizures. I thought this was also an anti seizure med? Can it possibly cause seizures in people that stop taking it? never had a seizure until I stopped taking this med??!!!!
Kyle, I have experienced delayed withdrawal. It hit me at 6 days going from 150 mg to 100mg. I have been on Lamictal for 8 years for bipolar and mood disorder.It started in the middle of the night with waking up in a state of anxiety and restless legs. I feel confusion, irritability, anger, out of body feeling, body aches, depression even suicidal thoughts.
My doctor said he couldn’t tell me what my withdrawal would be like or how I will function without it. That’s very eye opening and scary. I want out! I am also on 300 seroquel and have come down from 4G of Xanax a day to 1mg. These withdrawals off these meds are serious. I do wish doctors would care for patients and give more support for coming off. Thank you everyone for posting your experience, I don’t feel so crazy and alone anymore.
Yes. At certain points (many) during withdrawal I had the feelings of insanity and loss of control initially but then actually had several days of feeling more steady and occasionally even improved mood and energy. By the 3rd, 4th, 5th, day physical withdrawal symptoms became much worse. It’s been very difficult for sure. I tapered off completely last week and it has been very hard.
Hi Anne, Your comments seem to be the most recent. I have been tapering from 300 mg since August 9th and now completely off for about two weeks. I feel I did the tapering too quickly and I’ve done it on my own. I’m having so many symptoms. The headaches, dizziness, exhaustion, cold and flu, edginess, rawness, confusion, depression, the last couple of days I have been feeling itchy and my hair and nails seem to have changed texture and thinning.
I’m tempted to just go back on. How long are you off now? If I knew it was going to be this rough, I probably wouldn’t have done it. I feel as though I’ve trapped myself now, as I’m not sure what will happen if I go back on. I’m kind of scared and not sure what to do. What are your symptoms?
I am also on 62.5 mg from 100 mg. I dropped to 75 mgs and had no withdrawal symptoms for 3 weeks. So I dropped down to 62.5 and the symptoms came on full force and continued to get worse. I had a very delayed reaction with the worst of it starting at 6 weeks.I have been on that dose for nearly 4 months now and I can only describe it as hell.
I do have days where I feel better but it comes in waves. I am very busy person and hate the bad days. It’s difficult to function with the head pain, tingling sensations and fatigue. The best relief that I have found is marijuana. I only use it for sleep and it works. I would not sleep otherwise. I’m not sure when your post was written but are things better for you yet?
Joanne I too am going down from 125 to 80mg! Each time it gets worse! How are you doing today?
I personally lay the blame for lack of knowledge of possible withdrawal symptoms with GlaxoSmithKline for not sharing this information with the patients who are taking this drug. I am so grateful that I have come across this website because my adult disabled son is going through awful withdrawal symptoms from this drug (prescribed for epilepsy), and although we contacted Glaxo with questions about Lamictal, they have not given us any concrete information.
This is great information and well written. I would like to know where you able to pull the information. I don’t doubt the veracity but would like to be able to look into those resources for more details. I think lamictal withdrawal is severely under-reported and there simply isn’t enough information out there. Many are suffering and not knowing why and end up back and forth stopping and returning to the medicine confusing withdrawal with a return of original symptoms. Thanks.
I am coming off alcohol, Klonopin, and am slowly cutting dose of Lamictal (from 150 mg to 100). Being off the first two, and a lower does of L, I feel terrible. I’ve had two anxiety attacks in last two months, the first of my life. My head is cloudy, I can’t think straight, have balance props, near constant anxiety. I think it takes faith to discontinue psych meds, faith that somewhere down the line, we’ll feel better.
Thought always occurs to me that how I feel now is my baseline, and not the result of detox — in other words, my basic personality. I suspect it’s a bit of both. I take longs walks, do aerobic exercise. Both produce chemical changes that provide temporary relief from my symptoms. Onward and upward. I don’t want to go back to chemical living.
Very hard to do, but once the symptoms are gone, you don’t believe how good you are. It took me like 6 months not to have any symptoms, and I had to take citalopram 20 mg in order to get out the extreme depression I got from withdrawal. There are no words to describe all the symptoms I had; maybe a hell-like experience is close. I would not recommend this medication to anybody, no matter what.
Thank you. Your brief comment got my attention. After being on Lamictal for approx 18 mos, I slowly weaned down from a brief peak of 600 mg/ day (during my Mother’s passing). As of Oct. 5th, I stopped completely. It has now been 6 wks, most of which have been beyond excruciating: EXTREME exhaustion, flu-ish symptoms and body aches (I work out w heavy weights, stupid for a 57 yr old, in and of itself), and periods of deep (and debilitating) depression…. then, there are fleeting periods of feeling quite well. My question – just from your experience: How long would you estimate these withdrawal symptoms to last… or to last in such intensity. Thanks.
The symptoms gradually decrease and you should be better after 6 to 9 months. But they can come back for brief episodes back in life, as Lamictal is known to be stored in the body tissue for years and will at times be released back into the bloodstream.
I’ve been off lamictal 200-400 range for 13 months, after being on it for 7 years… getting sober on alcohol was easy compared to this. Even after 13 months, I still don’t feel like myself and have tremendous anxiety and panic. Not sure what I am going to do. I am definitely getting a lot of great information reading these posts, because I can tell you that the doctors don’t have a clue. Brian in Boston
Hello Dave, So appreciated sharing your experience. How are you now? Are you still on citalopram 20 mg? My husband is suffering so much trying to discontinue Lamictal, each moment is difficult. Thank you.
I’m on 200mg at night and have been a year. I’m on a taper of 50mg the first two weeks, then 50mg more for two weeks, then down to 25mg for two and then off. I went straight off lithium and seroquel and that was fine. I didn’t really mind it at all. I do believe that withdraw symptoms are real, but remember that placebo pills often cure major medical problems. My point is that the mind itself is powerful. If you are tripping all day about withdrawal you will create withdrawal symptoms you aren’t even having.
Anxiety is something that if a wanted to I could conjure up if I wanted to. All I would have to do is think of some past situation over and over and dwell on it and I can create the anxiety. Anyway, I hope the best for everybody. I just wanted to add that. I believe what we put into our hearts and minds really influences how we feel. If we read all the horror stories, that’s whats going to happen.
Very good points about the placebo effect. :-) Even when I start the day feeling there is nothing good about it, my life or myself, using “positive affirmations” and “actively searching for positives” really helps shift my vantage point and improves my mood and reduces anxiety. It’s amazing how a few mental tricks can help. The hard part is making these few mental tricks become mental habits.
Thanks for posting this. I have been taking 500 mg of Lamictal for more than a year for bipolar. I was taking about the same dose previously and quit taking it due to losing insurance. I’m losing insurance once again and I’m enjoying a cold turkey withdrawal after being informed at the pharmacy that the insurance denied my script. It is a really bad feeling. Very happy, sad and angry. Very dizzy. My fingers feel that horrible “tingle.” My teeth are grinding and I am feeling crazy.
I cried because I stepped on a snail, but I want to hurt someone real bad. Three days out and it isn’t looking so good. I have been through this before. It gets better eventually. It’s always funny to me how little they care when they tell you they can’t help you. They don’t seem to know or care what they are putting out on the street. I like the way my “illness” feels. If I could just shake this withdrawal, I could get out and do some real damage. If I survive the week I should be able to make it a year. Better living through chemistry.
I feel so badly for you! I know your pain. It IS amazing how little some dr’.s care once you are no longer a patient! There really should be some kind of LAW requiring the doctor to give you a detailed description on how to get off of your meds. once you ‘are dropped’ and the insurance co. should be required to prescribe the amount of medicine required to correctly get off of your med. It is very frightening to be cut off from a professionals help, and be seemingly thrown to the wolves.
I do not know if you are aware of this but many pharmaceutical companies will actually give you your meds. for free if you are in financial straights. Patients must do the research and the paperwork. There is a ray of hope. GSK, (Lamictal’s manufacturer) paid for mine for quit some time when my spouse got let go from work. I hope that you made it through your god awful withdrawal and are livin’ life. Hang in there.
Hello Sean, I read your post, and I know I do not know you, but it worried me a little. I wanted to know if you are feeling better. Fortunately, we don’t have to worry about insurance in Canada, and I can understand how this might be difficult on you. In my case, I have been on Lamotrigine for 10 years 200 mg. I know that if I miss a dose, in fact, if I don’t take it at the very same hour I usually take it at, I get the worst and most horrible feeling ever. Its very strange and difficult to explain. Its almost like an outer body experience…
I feel like I am in a tunnel and every stimuli is 100% stronger. I want to get off the meds and I am going to consult my doctor in that regard. Other then this very strange sensation I get, I have this horrible taste in my mouth. As it I have a piece of metal and the taste is so strong. In any case, please be safe and take care of yourself. Talk to someone if you can. You can make it through… I will keep you posted on my future withdrawing progress. I am here to talk if you need it.
Goodness how awful. I think it’s outrageous that you just get ‘dropped’ because the insurance won’t cover it, it’s disgraceful behaviour. I understand how you get angry. I’m the same. I have Bi-polar II I can be in tears one day an in an almost uncontrollable rage the next. I feel for you and hope you manage to cope with these horrible withdrawals.
I’ve only been on Lamotrigine 100mg for the past few weeks. I’m starting to come out with a skin rash and now I have the shakes / hot and cold with goosebumps even when I’m in a hot bath. Came here to check to see if this was normal. Maybe I missed a dose last night. Don’t know whether to take another dose now or call the doctor. Anyone with some advice?
Dear Simon, The symptoms, particularly the rash, is extremely dangerous. Please go to an urgent care or ER immediately and be sure and tell them exactly what you posted. Also, please let me know you received this and that you are ok. Louise
Mimi – I feel exactly like you do. It’s the strangest thing to explain – if I forget a dose…it’s not for long because my body/brain/muscles remind me. My haphazard description is I feel like I’m walking through a tunnel, on a trampoline, with bionic hearing and inhibited responsiveness. I have been on Lamictal for a 8 years or so 400 mg for the last 4 years.
In the middle of August I decided (with my doctor and with my husband) to go off for the same reason – we want to try to get pregnant. We decided to slowly decrease dose every 2-3 weeks depending on how I feel. My doctor wrote the prescription for 50mg 6 times a day…and I have been following up every two weeks. It’s been going well. But the last two days have been awful!
And it especially sucks because I knew how I would feel. This “getting off of a med” thing is a process. I was at my doctor’s office last week and still had a refill on my retail pharmacy script so I figured I could fill that 2 days ago while I waited for my 90day mail order to arrive. CVS is indicating I am trying to fill it too early.
I thought it might be pychosomatic that if I missed JUST ONE dose, say 6 hours late, I got very sick in a way I can’t describe. I was told it wasn’t addictive, so I haven’t understood why I was affected this way. I really want to stop taking lamictal, but I am very afraid.
Hi Bobbie: I experience the same thing if I don’t take it close to the same time. I don’t know exactly how to describe it, I just don’t feel good. I tried to titrate earlier this year (from 400mg) on a slow schedule my doctor monitored and physically I was ok, but I plummeted into a deep depression so I started back on 400.
I don’t think I even got to 250. I really want to stop taking it but I’m afraid too. I take it to augment Pristiq (I have treatment resistant unipolar depression). I don’t know what to do… I feel trapped, like I lose either way. Have you tried since September?
Hi Mimi, I know you wrote it a couple years ago but I just wanted to mention that what you had sounds like a frontal temporal seizure. An aura. That is the reason I am on lamotrigine. Mine only last about 30 seconds and it’s gone and I feel nauseous. I get the metal taste and déjà vu.
I also have a very strong metal taste in my mouth. Was only on this medicine for 3 weeks. How long did that last?
I am going through the same situation you are right now. I’m amazed at how poorly the industry deals with the people they hook on their poison. There are programs through Glaxo Welcome and Pfizer to keep you medicated for free. However, for that, the mentally ill need to have a psychiatrist or a willing general practitioner doctor. This is the Pfizer link: http://www.pfizerrxpathways.com/en/. I think that the Glaxo Welcome program is also available too. I just don’t have it listed on this post. They’re not perfect, and they’re a b*tch to fill out. I would try a free clinic if you have poor health care. Ideally there should be more organized mental health services. In the mean time, I hope this helps a little.
I have been taking Lamictal for 2 years now. I started on 150mg and the doctor increased my dosage to 300mg. Recently I could not afford the medication and two weeks later I thought I was losing my mind. I was angry irritable with headaches body aches and a rash. The fatigue was so bad I could barely get up. I also lost my appetite which caused weight loss. It got so bad I had to find a way to get and continue this medicine. Being back on Lamictal I feel sane again. These withdrawals are terrible and don’t know if I want to try to wean myself off this medicine.
When I lost my insurance I called the manufacturer and they provided the drug for free so I didn’t become a bad news story related to their drug.
Six years ago at age 59, I had 2 seizures in 7 month period. I went to Mt Saint, Jefferson and Pennsylvania hospitals for evaluation and the cause was never determined. I have taken lamictal for six years/ 400 mg and have been seizure free. I now at 65 would like to stop taking the mess. My doctor mentioned this but left it up to me. Any suggestions or advice would be appreciated. Thanks
Reply to Jim. I came across your msg. from last yr. I was put on Lam. for 1.5 yr. Due to having “possible” partial complex seizures (first Dr.). I had 3 episodes during that time span. I was never diagnosed. Last week, I did a 4 day Epilepsy monitoring. It was grueling. Included EEG, stress test and sleep depro. My test were normal. So my Dr. (2nd specialist) took me off Lam. for good. YAY! My wean was done while in the hospital.
A monitored and safe wean. I would say… Have the Ep. Monitoring done for safe measure. Especially since you have history of seizures. You may not need the meds. They cause more harm and side effects than good. I felt horrible on them! I finally will have my life back! No more headaches and feeling delusional. God hears and heals by prayer!
I have been on 200 mg of Lamictal for at least ten years. I was prescribed it originally for ocular migraines, then bi-polar plus it was supposed help neuropathy which is now under control from Lyrica and a gluten free diet. I started on 50mg, then 100mg and doubled to 200mg. On the day I went from 100mg to 200mg I drifted out of my lane and was side swiped by a large truck. I wasn’t hurt but the car took a beating. I don’t think I ever got out of that brain fog and I must taper off to 100mg which may be enough to give me a decent amount of relief. Any thoughts? I welcome opinions.
Hi. I just withdrew from Lamotrigine after 10 yrs. It is pretty rough. I would like to talk about it if you are available.
I’m open to hearing how your withdrawal is going, I’ve been on lamictal almost 10 years and I’m ready to be off. Thanks! Hope to hear back from you.
I took 50 mg for about 3 weeks as an adjunct to an ssri. The doc suggested I go up to 75mg. The next morning after taking it I woke up and my room was spinning. I could hardly stand. I quit cold turkey. It’s now 2 weeks later and I’m still getting periodic dizziness, particularly when I lay down. Anyone had anything similar? I’ve never had a drug with discontinuation side effects last so long.
When I came off in 2008 after 2 years on 200mg the dizziness was so intense I would sometimes fall over when standing up. I also had flu-like symptoms, anxiety, and bad tension headaches at the base of my spine. And well, now I am here in 2015 because some of this stuff is still in my system (Google protracted withdrawal), and since I am on an extended fast (where I shed pound after pound) it comes out at an accelerated pace and brings back some of the old symptoms.
Are you still feeling the withdrawals after a few years? I stopped taking it about a little over a year ago. But, since I started taking 400mg of Lamictal for 1 year I noticed blurred vision and speech impairment. I’m just wondering if this is a part of who I am now. I was on it for Epilepsy and can’t tell if my symptoms are seizure related or medicine related.
I started out at 50mgs and now on 14th day. Oddly enough the first week that I was on it I thought I found a miracle. I was on my game, or at least I thought so. It was most likely all in my head?…:) I was easily agitated and had short fuse but nothing to harsh. I am honestly not comfortable taking this stuff. I am Bipolar II with GAD, diagnosed when I was 23, now 48.
I am a professional, father of two and married for 25 years. I had a massive flu like attack that last day and today. Hard to say if it is the Lamotrigine (Lamictal) as they say one of the side effects are flu “Like” symptoms. I had the “Flu”!! Also brain zaps all day long. I think I should just go back to the original cocktail that I used to take which was Celexa 30mg daily, Lithium 900mg daily and Clonazapam (benzo) .5 mg before bed. reason for the sudden decision to change is panic attacks and general anxiety.
Found out I had to do a presentation and lost my “*%&$” that very day, sent me into tailspin. Here is another thing that I noticed, I was actually on citralopram and switch to name brand (Celexa) which actually made me feel a little worse? Once on a business trip I forgot my meds…ooops and went to the hospital in the US. They gave me enough (Citralopram and Clonazapam) to hold me over until I got back home, 4 days worth. I honestly thought that they made me feel better?!
I also went off of this medication. I have experience the most horrific side effects. My heart pounds fast with skipped beats. Migraines, extreme headaches pressure behind my eyes with blurriness. I have developed hearing problems with allowed striking white noise in my head 24 hours a day with high blood pressure of 181/117.
These are just some of my symptoms since taking and going off of L. I go to the emergency room a great deal and what they give me is a combination of medication that takes away the headaches pressure etc. however it only works for about eight hours. My life is so miserable and the quality of life is zero.
I don’t know what to do anymore my doctor ignores me and I am sure they’re sick of me in the emergency room. Nothing at home helps and I want to know when it will go away!!! ??
This is extremely helpful information, thank you. I have been taking 200mg of Lamictal for about a yr now but not sure it’s doing anything helpful at all. I’m not bipolar but I do have PMDD which leads to very nasty outbursts, my psychiatrist felt this would be helpful…I’m not questioning this. I of course won’t just stop w/out discussing weaning off of it. But I wonder is it possible to develop a skin rash a while after taking it as opposed to right away? I’ve had a very bad rash that nothing seems to be helping, had no clue Lamictal can cause rashes. Anyway, thank you again.
I’m surprised your psychiatrist didn’t tell you this but if you develop a rash while taking Lamictal it could be life threatening! The doctors advise you to stop taking the medication In total immediately and seek medical attention.
Google “Lamictal rash” under images and you’ll find the most horrific pictures. Some of the people with the rash look like they’ve been through a fire.
Be careful and get well.
First of all, Go Wolverines. Second of all, I too have been on lamictal for something other than bipolar disorder, although on a lower dose. As far as I’ve experienced it doesn’t do much unless coupled with another drug, in my case Lexapro. I don’t know if you find it worth it it not, but it’s something to consider. However if you’re developing a rash I’d definitely quit.
I too take Lamictal (200) and Lexapro (5) – which my doc describes as a ‘whiff’ and is amazed it helps me). It has been an excellent combination, but I do feel on edge/tingling as soon as 5 hours later if I miss a dose. This article is great, but does make me worry if I ever need to quit the Lamictal.
I’ve been on 50mg of Lamictal for about 2 years along with 20mg of Lexapro. Under enormous stress due to work and can’t seem to find the correct meds to straighten me out. I seemed professional help and the Dr recommended I taper off the Lamictal within a week and try and get off the Lexapro if possible. I’m trying now and losing my mind in doing so.
I’m dizzy, have severe panic attacks, feel I’m going insane, claustrophobic, severe anger, severe mood swings, uncontrollable crying spells, nightmares… it’s hell! The Dr instructed me to get back on the Lamictal and increase the dose from 50mg to 100mg. I also had good results with Prozac when I first started 20 years ago taking this type of med, so she put me on 10mg of Prozac.
My symptoms seem to be getting slightly better but it’s not happening quick enough. I thank you for your article and knowing this won’t last forever is a big relief. GOD BLESS ALL WHO SUFFER AND MAY YOUR SYMPTOMS PASS QUICKLY!
I got a rash 2 years later. They removed me from 400mg by 50mg every 5 days. The rash is still there and it’s been a month…
I’m on Lamotrogine about 1 year and a half now, I ‘m taking 250 g twice a day.
For the past week I have reduce it by 100 g twice a day, I was getting all the side effect of withdrawing, I almost got back to the 250 g twice a day, but now I do understand why I am getting this side effect. Thank you to this website.
This is the best withdrawal guidance I have seen in some time and the only comprehensive one I have seen on Lamictal. I’ll reiterate the other poster that with the 50 mg drop over the last 3 weeks, I have started having fairly moderate headaches with a lot of pressure and tingling, fatigue, and my good old sensitivity/emotional state is peaking through a bit more. I was taking it for GAD, but I can’t tell if the anxiety is any worse or better than it was taking it in the last 6 months. Only been on for a year+. Crossing my fingers that this taper is better than the one off of horrible Lexapro! (it already is so far…)
Are you taking anything else for GAD?
Thank you for this excellent information! I have searched the web and found no other useful information regarding discontinuing Lamictal. I have been experiencing foggy brain, a little irritability, definitely tingling all over my body and the feeling of pressure around my head or brain. But it is definitely doable and your article is helping me know I will be fine. I have been on it for about 15 years and now am tapering off. About two more weeks to go and I will be psychotropic drug free for the first time in 20 years. Thank you so very much.
What were you taking & what other measures have you taken to replace the meds? Best of luck!
Thank you for this article, very informative and helpful. I’m coming off this drug after 30 years and experiencing most of the symptoms. I am on it for epilepsy and cannot tell if I’m seizure free unless I come off the drug. It was a concern because I’ve experienced bipolar symptoms in the early stages of the withdrawal. I’m assuming it’s part of the withdrawal. This is going to be a slow withdrawal of 25mg every 3 months.
The same with me. I am being taken off them because they have badly damaged my kidneys, as I was taking them in combination with Epilim. I have been reducing 50mg every 3 weeks (originally 200mg/day) and it has been hard and now I am down to the 1 tablet I feel crap! I am shaking, nauseous, really bad headaches dizziness and blurred vision, tired, and tingling. But, your article has given me hope that come 6 weeks time, I will be feeling human again and I am not alone. :-)
Meredith – After eight years of taking L 150mg/once a day, I am wanting to get off both my psych meds. Klonopin is first. I am now off it for several days after six months of titration. I feel foggy headed, depressed, anxious, can concentrate and can’t sit still. In other words, just awful. I am an older man and am curious how you would describe yourself for comparison purposes.
I have tried to discontinue Lamictal before and became deeply depressed within two or three days. So I am going to go VERY slowy, since I haven’t really been off klonopin long enough to have adjusted to its absence. Poor balance is the primary reason I want off L. This symptom was present from the first time I took it (and it had been the same when I took Depakote previously).
I have started to have the joint pain in my hands and feel, with fingers that get stuck in the fist position. From L? And I have tingling in various places, some of which feel like mild electrical sensations. It will be hard to differentiate which withdrawal symptoms are which (K OR L), so that’s even more reason to approach the Lamictal withdrawal very slowly.
You are one of the only people posting who is/was coming off both. How are you doing?
I wasn’t trying to come off I ran out and when I called in for a refill was told my doctor quit. I missed three days and was panicky, in a rage, overwhelmed, and had crying spells. So I am back on them and I must say that this medicine helps me a lot.
Kate would love to talk to you about lamotrigine withdrawal. Going through hell. Been on it for 9 yrs. Never did work well for my bipolar. Can we talk?
I was on Lamictal for a couple of weeks & it made me want to drink alcohol. I am 58 & can count on one hand the number of times I drank. With this medicine I craved alcohol & could not get a buzz. I could finish a bottle of wine & feel nothing. Before Lamictal 2 sips was too much, called my Doctor he told me to stop immediately. So weird! I’m also on Geodon & that is not working either, crying all the time, started worrying about everything, just a mess.
Kate how are you today? Did you have fast heart pounding?