Millions of people in the United States take prescription drugs to manage a mental health or medical condition. Some common drugs people take have the potential for abuse and physical dependence.
Lamictal is a prescription medication used to treat mood disorders and seizures. People may abuse Lamictal to get its desirable side effects. Prolonged periods of Lamictal abuse can result in physical dependence, which can be challenging to overcome.
This article will explore what happens when someone stops taking Lamictal after developing physical dependence.
What you will learn:
- The effects and risks of Lamictal abuse
- Common Lamictal withdrawal symptoms
- The Lamictal withdrawal timeline
- What to expect during treatment for Lamictal addiction
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and recovery support
The Lamictal withdrawal process can be very challenging. If you or someone you love struggles with Lamictal abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our comprehensive treatment and support programs. You may also schedule an intake appointment.
What is Lamictal (Lamotrigine)?
Lamictal is the brand name for a drug called lamotrigine. Doctors may prescribe Lamictal to treat bipolar disorder and epilepsy (seizure disorder). Medical professionals believe this medication can slow down impulses in the brain that may cause seizures.
Lamictal is also an effective mood stabilizer. It may reduce mood swings and depressive episodes related to bipolar disorder.
People must take Lamictal only under careful medical supervision. Misusing Lamictal can lead to unwanted side effects, worsening mental health symptoms, suicidal thoughts, addiction, and other serious complications.
If you or a loved one struggles with Lamictal abuse, seek treatment as soon as possible.
The Effects and Risks of Lamictal Abuse
People may take prescription Lamictal to manage mental health conditions or a seizure disorder. Some people may experience desirable side effects when taking this medication, including a pleasurable “high.”
Some people may misuse Lamictal by:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking doses more often than prescribed
- Ingesting Lamictal differently than prescribed, such as snorting, injecting, or smoking it
- Taking Lamictal recreationally (without a prescription)
People who abuse Lamictal may also combine it with other substances, including prescription medications, illicit drugs, or alcohol. Mixing Lamictal and other substances increases the risk of complications.
Potential side effects and risks of Lamictal abuse include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Nausea
- Appetite loss
- Strange dreams
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Itchy skin or rash
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Disruption or loss of the menstrual cycle
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty maintaining concentration
- Poor coordination
- Joint and muscle pain
- Breathing difficulties
Lamictal abuse can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Long-term Lamictal abuse can lead to tolerance (needing more of a substance to get the desired effects) and addiction.
It is important to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of Lamictal abuse.
Common Lamictal Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone suddenly stops taking Lamictal after abusing it, they may experience uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Symptoms of Lamictal withdrawal include:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Agitation
- Panic attacks
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Cognitive impairment
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Impulsive behaviors
- Aggression
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Chest pain
- Nausea
Withdrawal from Lamictal can be a challenging process. Most people require intensive treatment and ongoing support to avoid relapse.
The Lamictal Withdrawal Timeline
It is difficult to determine how long withdrawal symptoms will last. Several factors can influence the severity and duration of a person’s symptoms.
Here is a general overview of what to expect throughout the Lamictal withdrawal timeline.
24-48 hours
Most people experience withdrawal symptoms within the first 24 to 48 hours after their final dose of Lamictal.
Days 3-5
Acute symptoms may peak between days three and five of withdrawal. After this period, symptoms may begin to improve. However, symptoms may come and go or change in intensity throughout the withdrawal period.
One week
Many people may notice significant improvements in their symptoms by the end of the first full week of detox. However, some people may continue to struggle with symptoms for days or weeks after this point.
One month
By around a month, most people will notice that withdrawal symptoms have disappeared. It is crucial to have treatment during detox and beyond to reduce the risk of relapse.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about the Lamictal withdrawal timeline. You may also explore our holistic treatment or recovery support programs.
Treatment for Lamictal Withdrawal
Lamictal detoxification can be challenging. Medical detox and medically-assisted treatment (MAT) programs offer comprehensive support that supports safe withdrawal from Lamictal.
Detox and treatment programs may include:
- Medical detox programs that include gradual tapering and medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual and family therapy
- Support groups and group counseling
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, and nutrition support
- Aftercare planning
Comprehensive detox and treatment plans can help people taper off Lamictal slowly. These programs can also equip individuals with the skills to prevent future relapse. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health team to learn more about our treatment or recovery support programs.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one struggles with Lamictal abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to explore our programs, verify insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Lamotrigine
- The American Journal of Psychiatry: Lamotrigine: Pharmacology, Clinical Utility, and New Safety Concerns
- Science Direct: End-of-dose emergent psychopathology in ambulatory patients with epilepsy on stable-dose lamotrigine monotherapy: A case series of six patients
