Teva worked the best but not being produced. Many brands of the generic made me dizzy and nauseous until I found the company Teva. Bad news, Teva stopped making the tablet and only makes the generic extended release and my insurance company doesn't cover it. They want $700 for a month supply. The tablets cost less than $10 for the same time period. Question: does anyone else have this issue. What brands work for you. My pharmacy's carry the brands taro, Unichem and Alembic. What are your experiences
What brand lamotrigine has the least side effects?
Question posted by Michael4444 on 28 Sep 2018
Last updated on 8 March 2024
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
30 Answers Page 2
Hellkat1
8 May 2019
I’m surprised that nobody here has mentioned Cadista? I’ve been taking it for several years and only once have been given another manufacturer and when I had a terrible reaction that month, that’s when I realized how much a difference it can make in manufacturers.
I get my scripts at CVS and sometimes they will go through a stretch where they will get the order right for several months, but then sometimes I have to stay in too and make sure they keep it in stock. I’ll call a few days before picking it up (if I remember, I have some old lower mg doses that I can multiply if I run out) to make sure they got it right. More often than not they have to order it.
For a while there, they told me they no longer stocked it and couldn’t get it!! However, I knew it was still made. It really depends on the pharmacist, but they finally started ordering it for me without giving me a problem each month. Heck, I fill like 9 scripts a month, with another 7 that aren’t maintenance meds but need filling often enough, I think they can do me the favor of ordering my dang Lamotrigine.
But look up Cadista by Jubilant and see what you find.
For reference, I am bipolar and very major depressive with major anxiety. They keep prescribing me the antipsychotics but I don’t take them because they knock me out. I always need something to wake me up because depression keeps me wanting to sleep all the time.
I take 400 mg of the Jubilant Cadista Lamotrigine. I’m also on 150 Wellbutrin, I had to jump back from 300 bc of my anxiety. I recently talked to my dr and he prescribed generic Cytomel (T3) for me. That helps my energy and depression like nothing ever has without triggering my mania, but I do have to keep a close eye on it. I’m hoping my dr isn’t quacky for writing this for me, because one of my friends seemed surprised, however, this is the best I’ve felt in a very long time.
I’m also on Lexapro 20 mg to mellow me and I take Topamax for migraines, neuropathy and more, but I’m told that it also mixes in the family of psychotropics somewhat.
To circle back to the start, before I began taking Lamotrigine, I could not even consider picking my head up off the pillow. It only took around a week for me to begin feeling the effects and it changed my life. And I began with Cadista. Now for some reason, I thought it was a different Cadista than Jubilant, but all I know is the one time they messed it up, I was terrible.
I hope this helps. Sorry I’m so wordy!
RealAnise
20 June 2019
Everyone is so different in their responses. All generics are a mess for me except forTaro lamotrigine, which was a miracle for me, MUCH better than brand. Seriously, for $16 vs $500, Taro was light years ahead. But then I could never find it again!! I just found out that Costco might carry it. I'm really crossing my fingers because Taro lamotrigine was like a completely different drug from both brand and all other generics. But some people have had really bad experiences with Taro. You just never know.
Nyx710
3 April 2019
After being on the medication for about 2 years, I stopped taking it (careless, I know) for about 4 months. When I restarted, I was experiencing a lot of blurred vision. About a month afterward, my pysch told me it could be the medication but thought it odd I didn't have that side effect before. Come to find out, the pharmacy (without permission or notification) changed my generic brand from TEVA to UNICHEM. I had been on TEVA brand for 2 years and only recently (unbeknownst to me) started UNICHEM. I switched meds and my vision returned to normal within 24-36 hours. Two weeks later, having forgotten to throw out the UNICHEM bottle, I took the meds again. For several hours at work, I was frustrated I couldn't see print or read well. Finally texted my husband and realized the mix up. He threw the UNICHEM pills in the trash (where they should have been already).
It is frustrating that you cannot rely on the same side effects from generic medications manufactured by different companies. I attempted to switch to name brand to avoid trouble with generics but my Rx company won't pay for it. #TheStruggleIsReal
Michael4444
3 April 2019
Are you taking any other brand or did you stop taking Lamotrigine all together.
Mimi1205
21 March 2019
I had been taking Teva as well, 200mg 2x per day. I was able to switch to the name brand for $35/mo when Teva stopped manufacturing the 200 mg. My employer changed insurance providers and it jumped to $50/mo. I found I can get it at CVS at $125/3 mos. I’m trying Unichem for the first time and after a week I have tingling all over, I’m lightheaded, anxious, and I feel weakness in my arms and legs. Has anyone else had these reactions? If so, do they go away after a period of time?
I was really excited at first because I didn’t have any side effects, but now I am feeling I may have to go back to the brand name and even at $125/3 months it’s not in my budget.
The only other generic I can remember taking is Zydus. With that I had uncontrollable itching and anxiety so I was also taking Xanax almost daily. While on Teva I didn’t have to take any Xanax. With Unichem I have had to start taking Xanax again.
Please let me know if anyone else has had the side effects of tingling, lightheadedness, anxiety, and weakness and if they went away after a time. Thanks.
cmccown80
21 March 2019
I had all of those symptoms. My doctor increased my dose slightly, take 212.5 mg now. I cut a 25 mg pill in half to get 12.5. It has helped with anxiety but I still get the tingling feeling. My insurance won't even cover brand name so I have to stick with Unichem. The side effects are better than what they were. I really miss Teva.
Albatross13
21 March 2019
I currently pay $110 a month for the brand name and have gotten a part time weekend job two days a month to pay for it. My mental health is too important. It’s far from an ideal situation but these non-Teva genetics are truly trash.
Mimi1205
21 March 2019
I read farther up that someone is trying 16 25/mg tablets per day of Teva. Have you looked into that? I might check it out if this doesn’t work. I would just hate to have to rely on Teva again only to be disappointed. I’d really prefer to find an acceptable alternative generic.
Thank you for your input.
Mimi1205
11 March 2021
Update: I’ve been taking TARO brand for almost a year with few side effects. I take a very small dose of Rexulti to counteract a slight increase in anxiety. I also tried Unichem again and the side effects were not as pronounced, which leads me to believe they changed the inactive ingredient formula. Really it’s just trial and error, closely supervised by your medical professional.
Cathy Willis
13 March 2019
I have been taking 200mg TEVA 2xday for over 5 years... no problems. The pharmacist informed me it was no longer manufactured and replaced it with Unichem. On the first dosage I had a severe reaction and I could not focus and had difficulty standing and walking. My original Rx had been written by my neurologist to supply the same manufacturer for all refills. My doctor called and pharmacist found 2 months supply. Now it is no longer available. Of I have to decide what to take and I am very nervous about it. I would love to know what others do.
Michael4444
13 March 2019
Cathy, so sorry your having trouble. I was on 200mg twice a day for 5 years. Pryer to after finding Teva I suffered from the same experience. I was fortunate as others in this string found Unichem the best at of all the other companies. It didn’t do the total job so my doctor gave me 150 mg of Lithium for a month and then added 150 mg of Wellbutrin. I’m taking that mixture for about two months. I’m ok but still not motivated at work and occasionally flipped out on my wife and above all my grandson which I never did. I found name brand Lamictal chewable in Canada for $150 per month. 400 mg per day. I gave up with the combination platter. My us pharmacy wanted $1000 per month for the same amount.
Albatross13
14 March 2019
Others have reported eventually adjusting to Unichem. I would request a brand waiver from your insurance. I pay about $100 a month for brand name. It’s far from ideal, but anything beyond Teva and the brand name cause me a lot of issues. Best luck.
Parker35
13 March 2019
I have had good results mood-wise for BPI and PTSD with Lamotrigine from Unichem. It relaxes and slightly lifts my mood because my mood states are never euphoric, always mixed features and anxiety.
With this unichem concentration I do have a lot of dryness and acne along my jaw, reflux/constipation, nails peel, and my hair is falling out/hairline receding... Want to increase my dose but afraid to have these side effects get worse. Anyone else get these?
I am trying TARO and I can’t tell if it’s the formulation or stress because it isn’t as effective as Unichem was mood-wise.
I need a different formulation to stabilize me without these side effects. Lithium was so bad I had uncontrollable twitching, wet the bed, and couldn’t open my eyes from dehydration at 300mg... other anticonvulsants like carbamazepine and valproate posed reproductive/PCOS risk for me as a woman... antipsychotics for acute episodes gave me severe insomnia, lactation, no menses, decreased libido, and involuntary movements.
RealAnise
6 March 2019
I know that many people have had good results from Teva generic. But I think it's important to tell the other side of the story. I was switched to Teva from brand a few years ago and had the worst possible nightmare experience you could ever imagine. I had breakthrough seizures, screaming fits, black depression, crippling anxiety, you name it, I had it. I was able to switch back to brand and all the problems stopped immediately. The only 2 generics that have ever worked for me are Taro (which is impossible to find in my area now) and Actavis (easy to find... ) I literally am thanking God that Teva was discontinued because I was so afraid of ever getting stuck with it again. The point of all this is that there is no way to predict who will do well with which version of this drug. The differences between supposedly "equivalent" generics can be staggering. It is impossible to guess from the experiences of others which will work for you. So if one doesn't work, keep trying!!
dtemkinacs4
6 March 2019
You hit it on the head. What works for one person may not work for another. Everyone’s brains are wired differently. After having been on Teva for 15 years I was forced to switch to a different generic this past November because Teva stopped making lamotrigine. Unichem has been just as good, if not a bit better for me, as Teva. I think it’s horrible that pharmacies (and prescribing doctors) don’t inform patients that different manufacturers may have different fillers for the same generics. ESPECIALLY for a drug that is used to control epilepsy, bipolar, and temporal lobe syndrome. My suggestion is to do as much research as possible when changing manufacturers. The information about ingredient fillers is out there but you have to be very diligent about finding it. This thread has helped me and I hope it has helped others, too. Don’t give up!
Michael4444
6 March 2019
My update FYI
Unfortunately I have to take a cocktail but it is The best yet. I was on 400 mg of Teva which was the best brand since I turned 65 and my insurance wouldn’t pay fore name brand. Now I take 400 mg generic from Unichem, 150 mg lithium ( lowest dose made and 150 mg of Wellbutrin also a low dose.) the dizziness, nausea has gone away and behavior change has 90%. I have a short fuse but am aware of it but I still don’t have drive at work. Thank god i’m self employed. I use to say the customer is always right and not I tell them they are wrong. In other words I’m not as patient as I use tone. I acted like a 2 year old when my daughter 38 and my grandson 8 didn’t do what I wanted.
It amazes me that most pharmacists and doctors don’t know how brand to brand in generics vary. I’m not talking about a little variation. They should read the comments above. One positive note. I spoke directly to Teva and they passed my problem on to other manufacturers. They said it was the law that they document and report any complaints about drug reactions. That’s why so many side effects are listed on the pamphlet you get with your prescriptions. I was shocked when I received a call from another manufacturer and asked me every question under the sun what my issue was including asking me for my doctors telephone number. I guess this action was generated by today’s liability and and class action suits.
I hope my story helps someone.
RealAnise
6 March 2019
Update: I have some NEW info today. I talked to my doctor and found out WHY the lamotrigine generics are so radically different from each other. They all have different fillers, but the question is why the range of fillers seem to almost literally turn each generic into a different medication from the others. The answer is that fillers affect the *rate* and *amount* of absorption of the drug!!! If the fillers are not the same, then the medications will essentially not be the same either. For whatever reason (not sure about this), this affects anticonvulsants more than probably any other type of medication. So that's why this happens.
Given that this fact is not really rocket science to understand, you would think that pharmacies would take this into consideration when filling medications. If a generic from one manufacturer has radically different effects from another-- which is does for an awful lot of people-- then this fact needs to be recognized. The generic from a specific manufacturer needs to be consistently kept the same instead of randomly changing it to another one at random times (or even changing it for a good reason and then not bothering to keep people informed that this is happening.) I don't think I need to tell you all that this doesn't happen. Instead, we all seem to need to dig up the information by ourselves and insist that we get the correct medications. And because that's what we as patients have to do... here's the info!
RealAnise
17 March 2019
dtemkinacs4 if you see this, could you please PLEASE post the link to the site that shows the inactive ingredients for different generics by different manufacturers? I have been desperately searching for this information and cannot find it anywhere? I would be more grateful than I can say. I can't send a private message so I'm asking on here.
ajf16
7 Jan 2019
I'm sorry to hear you're struggling. I don't have an answer for you, unfortunately... however I'm very much in the same boat. I had been taking Teva for over 10 years. Then three months ago, I got home from the pharmacy only to discover my peach diamond shaped pills were now round and white. I called to make sure they had sent me home with the right drug. They explained that Teva stopped making it and they had to switch me to a different brand (you would think they'd warn you in advance).
First they put me on Zydus. Right away I started feeling awful -- nauseous, dizzy, panicky, crying spells, feeling like I was nodding off sporadically throughout the day. I felt like I was losing my mind or on the verge of having a seizure. I called my Nurse Practitioner in tears and she assured me the active ingredient is the same and that if I gave it a few more days I'd probably get used to it. After a bunch of searching online it seemed like I wasn't alone. I even found an article in the New York Times that describes how generics have caused adverse effects in others, despite pharmacists claims that there's no substantial evidence to back that up.
I requested a new brand -- they gave me the kind by Unichem... It's been the same experience, except now I'm having trouble speaking clearly. My speech is slurred, I stutter, and I constantly lose my train of thought. It's really embarrassing, especially at work. I'm afraid of trying another generic, but I know how ridiculously expensive brand is and that my insurance probably won't cover it.
If I skip a dose, I feel a huge difference (which I've done just to get me through the work day)... but I also put myself at greater risk of having a seizure. I feel like I'm between a rock and a hard place.
dtemkinacs4
7 Jan 2019
I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles with the new manufacturers. I’ve been on Unichem lamotrigine for about 7 weeks now and I must say that I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The first 7-10 days on it were rough but I guess my brain and body have gotten used to it. Having said that, I do not take it for seizure activity or bipolar disorder. I was diagnosed with temporal lobe syndrome a long time ago and a pharmacologist suggested lamictal to help with the symptoms. After finding this board I did some research and I found a site that where you can compare all of the active and inactive ingredients of lamotrigine from different manufacturers. Unichem was very similar to Teva. I believe Teva had two inactive ingredients that Unichem did not have. But there were other manufacturers with much more diverse ingredient listings. Feel free to contact me and I’ll send you the link if you’d like to see them for yourself. Good luck and keep the faith :)
Michael4444
7 Jan 2019
I called Teva this morning and spoke with someone who handles side effects to their drugs. I told her our story that the side effects were from all of their competitor's and the should look into it and start manufacturing lamotrigine again because no one on this chat room has had success with any there manufacturer except Unichen. I believe I got their ear and you all should call as well so they don't think I'm the only person having trouble. Their number is 215-591-3000.
Orangebunny
6 June 2019
Hi there - i have posted above explaining a little. Would it be ok if you sent me the link for the ingredients web site, so i can have a look at whats in the Teva vs some of the others please?
Many thanks,
Matthew
BeccaLeigh22
23 Dec 2018
So, I’ve been on Lamotrigine (Teva) 400mg daily for about two years for Bipolar disorder. I swear it saved my life and it worked amazing for me. When I found out that Teva no longer manufactured Lamotrigine I was so upset. I tried to avoid switching by calling every pharmacy that had it in stock. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case and was forced to switch to Lamotrigine-Unichem. I was terrified about switching and heard that Unichem was a similar generic to Teva. However, since switching I have been a total wreck. It started with headaches and additional memory loss. I thought I could survive but then I started to become extremely manic and have uncontrollable mood swings. I’m super lovey & sweet one minute and then I just snap the next. I always find myself sleepy during the day and having horrible insomnia at night. This is completely out of character for me and I feel like I’m dying.
It’s at the point that I want to just go off my medication but I know that’s not and option. I’ve been on it for about 2 weeks, so I’m fighting hard to get through this because I’m hoping it will all get better with time. Btw I’m also on Wellbutrin 150mg and I have no health care. I know it’s a lot of personal information but I just wanted to see if anyone could relate. Also, has anyone else experienced Manic episodes or insomnia when switching to Unichem?
Albatross13
23 Dec 2018
If you don’t have health care I would reach out to GSK (makers of brand name Lamictal) and see if they have any sort of discount program for the brand. I’ve heard of this working with other drugs. Is Medicare/Medicaid an option? That could also open up other options.
BeccaLeigh22
23 Dec 2018
Thank you, I’m trying to get health care for 2019 but I still don’t think they’ll cover brand name Lamictal. I just think it’s so crazy that it cost over $1000 for a month supply. But like you said I’ll try contacting the manufacturer and see if they offer coupons.
jamesmburgess
4 Jan 2019
With insurance, Lamictal over $1000. Called a mail order in Canada, their price for same order=$350.
Michael4444
4 Jan 2019
Unichem is working along with 75Mg of bupropion (Generic for Wellbutrin (Manufactured by Heritage Phar)) and 150 Mg of Lithium (manufactured by Roxane Drug Co)
This combination is the closest to how I felt on Teva's generic Lamictal. I'm on this combination for about two weeks. I'll keep you all informed how It goes after a month or two.
Regarding coupons from Smith Kline, the manufacturer of name brand Lamictal They have a program for a Free 3 month supply if your household income is below $41K and you spend over $650 a year on drugs. You will need a printout and signature from pharmacy. Even if you qualify they are only giving a 3 month supply and I take the drug year round. After you spend another $650 they send you another 3 months supply. I offered the $650 and after the first 3 months and they thought I was cute.
Please keep us up to date with your Up's and Downs. It goes without saying that I would like to be on one not 3 different medicines.
cmccown80
19 Feb 2019
I am having the same problem with Unichem. I noticed I was a little after a few weeks of taking it, but now it is getting worse after taking it a few months. I was doing so well with Teva Lamotrigine, was stable for four years until Teva stopped making it. I guess it's time to call my psychiatrist and see what she thinks. I wonder if I increased the dose would it help. Really don't like the way I am feeling lately.
Michael4444
20 Feb 2019
besides my 200mg am + 200mg pm of Unichem Lamotrigine my doctor added the smallest dose of lithium 150 mg for a month and then after a month he added the lowest dose of Wilburton 75mg (generic) name brand starts at 150mg.
I'm so much better.
Unichem is the only company that didn't make me dizzy and cranky.
It breaks my heart that you all are having such a tough time.
Please share with me what your doctor prescribes and how it worked for you.
Kristin74
19 Dec 2018
I am also in the same boat as everyone else on here. I’ve been on 350mg of Teva lamotrigine daily for bipolar disorder for years. I have had very bad side effects with Taro and Northstar. After finding this board I decided to try Unichem. I’ve been on it for 10 days now with no side effects and I feel the same (maybe even a little better) as when I was taking the Teva. If I do start having issues the next manufacturer I will try is Mylan (per my pharmacists recommendation). Until then fingers crossed!
Michael4444
19 Dec 2018
I'm happy to hear your good news. It's really been and still is a tough journey for most of us.
dtemkinacs4
14 Dec 2018
I was diagnosed with temporal lobe syndrome over 15 years ago. I’ve been taking 300mg of Teva lamotrigine for what seems like forever. I never realized that different manufacturers had different fillers for generics until my pharmacologist told me. Occasionally, I’d be given a different manufacturer and start feeling bad. But when I was able to get the Teva again I felt normal. I was very disappointed to hear that Teva no longer makes lamotrigine... or at least the 150mg pills I was taking. I contacted them directly and all they said was that they don’t make it anymore. After doing some research I decided to take a shot with Unichem. For the first week or so I felt very sluggish and almost sedated. That went away, though. I’ve been on it for about a month and I’m sure my brain and body is still getting used to it. I’m also going through a lot of stress right now so I’m sure that’s not helping the transition either, lol.
I’m hoping Teva decides to manufacture lamotrigine once again but if not, Unichem seems to be working ok for me.
catlovr1129
15 Dec 2018
Yea been on Unichem too for about 3 weeks now. Sometimes not sure if it’s a medication issue or a life issue with life stress. But so far I think it’s just life and not the medication. But since I know I had major issues with the Zydus - went almost psychotic in a rage, threw a chair against the couch, couldn’t think or talk without a struggle, had panic attacks, didn’t want to drive or work... it was horrible. Took zydus for a month before figuring out it was the issue. Took 2 months back on Teva to feel normal. So far no bad side effects after the first few days with Unichem. Thank God
Byrjun
12 Dec 2018
This happened to me with TEVA brand klonopin. No others work! Actavis especially was horrible. Why is TEVA doing this?!
I would call and complain at the very least. They give us a drug that works then suddenly rip it away and ruin our lives! Its not fair and not right!
Michael4444
12 Dec 2018
catlovr1129,
Please post the website if you can find it again. I'd really appreciate it. I have been taking Unichem 400mg (the same dose as I was taking Teva and my doctor through in 150mg (the smallest dose) of Lithium. No side effects but it doesn't do the job. I feel like its only working at 75%. I am fighting off taking Klonopin .25 for anxiety. I have no drive to work. Thank god I have minimal dizziness occasionally. Any breakthrough for any of you.?
Kandykid
2 Dec 2018
I’ve been taking teva for years with total control. About 10 years ago I was given another generic brand with Disastrous affect. My pharmacy has Torrent & Taro. Like all of you I’m really worried/scared. I just got a job after being off 4 months. I’m a caregiver. I can’t be having “problems”, as though who can.
catlovr1129
3 Dec 2018
I have been on Unichem brand for a week now. Some side effects in the beginning like grogginess first day and a little light headed at times. But no major mood swings so that's a plus. I am keeping watch on any signs though since sometimes they can take awhile. But so far so good. I did try the Teva supposedly brand extended release with horrible results. This is actually manufactured by ACTIVUS which Teva bought out. I found a website that actually shows each manufacturer for Lamotrigine and the ingredients in that brand. I looked at original Teva I took (150 mg) and other brands. Found the extended release had 7 other ingredients than mine. Found Unichem had all the ingredients mine does except Corn Starch and Silicon dioxide. I cant remember the website but can find it later at home for all who need to look this up.
RealAnise
17 March 2019
catlovr1129 , please, PLEASE post the site with this info when you can. This would mean so much to me. I have been desperately searching for accurate information on the differences between the generics-- I would give ANYTHING for this!! Okay, maybe that was a little over the top... ;) But I've been trying to find out about this for so long, and I've had such radically different experiences with generics from different manufacturers. It's great to find out that this info does exist somewhere. *Please* post this link if you have it and I will send good karma your way forever!!
Kandykid
4 April 2019
Update: I’ve now been on lamotrigine by Torrent for 3 months. I had been taking teva for 15 years without any seizures. When I started the Torrent, I got very dizzy, head ache & couldn’t function. I could tell I was over medicated. By the time of my next dose id be feeling better. Take the next dose and I’d be back to not being able to function. My doctor said I needed to let my body get use to it. I had a job and couldn’t afford to miss any work. So I decided to space my pills out over the day. It worked!! No seizures & no dizziness etc!! With experimenting I’v spaced it out to five different times a day. I take five tabs. I don’t think my doctor was pleased about me doing it on my own but glad that it seems to be working. I still have a fuzzy brain, bad memory, & some vibrations in my arm (my seizure focal point) but those were happening even when taking teva.
Michael4444
15 Nov 2018
My deal for name brand fell apart. My insurance company approved me to substitute for generic but are not giving me generic prices. CVS charges $1000 for a month supply. I take 400 mg per day. My insurance company said they would pay 1/2. So $500 per month for me. My budget can’t handle that unless my wife stops eating.
The closest to Teva which doesn’t give me side effects is Unichem. The only problem which is It doesn’t seem to be strong enough. I’m having anxiety before I get out of bed in the morning and really no drive to work. I irritated easily. I’m aware of it and try and control not to be nasty. My wife sees the difference in my personality and is understanding. So far. I have an appointment to see a sharing which hasn’t be necessary for 8 years to ask if there is anything new on the market or an add on to what I’m taking. My generic cost me under $10 a month and the name brand $1000. For the same time period Who could give me an explanation.
Mxkied3
12 Dec 2018
Update! Sorry it's been a while :) So I've been on the Unichem for almost 2 months now with no more side effects. It was scary at first but this is the best alternative I've found so far. But I take 400mg/day and I think I need to up the dose a bit to be completely effective. I've heard this can happen when switching generics. So I'm going to stick with Unichem unless something crazy happens and I'll see about upping the dose and what difference it makes.
catlovr1129
15 Nov 2018
I am in the same boat. I take this for Bipolar OCD, borderline personality disorder etc.My pharmacy has had more and more trouble getting the Teva Brand so I finally called Teva directly. They say they are only making the 25Mg and 300 extended release. I take 350 MG a day and would have to take 14 pills for the 25 MG. I asked if the Ext release was the same exact ingredients as the regular one and they said no there are differences. This sucks. I tried the Zydus brand when Kroger switched. I literally went psychotic and took months to recover after I switched back to the Teva brand. I am scared and don't know what to do. Searching for an equivalent to Teva brand. I have never been on the Lamictal name brand so not sure what that would do to me. If I absolutely have to I will take the 14 pills a day and deal with it.
Any help or insight as you guys work thru this would be great. Keep this website updated and post when you find something out please...
catlovr1129
28 Nov 2018
Update: I took 1 XR Lamotrigine last Wednesday. Spent thanksgiving feeling like my heart was racing, started getting manic, having trouble getting words out, then started getting angry at small things. These same side affects happened when Kroger switched to Zydus. TEVA bought out Activus. The XR Lamotrigine is manufactured by Activus not Teva.
I found a website thru searching this that gives the ingredients for each manufacturer version of Lamotrigine. The XR I took had 7 extra ingredients that were not in my regular TEVA. Called my main pharmacies to find their brands. It looks like Unichem has all the ingredients of my original Teva brand except corn starch and silicone dioxide.
Took my 1st dose last night. Only main side effect was being really sleepy all day. Just took second dose. Now feeling like my heart is racing and just feel hyper alert for lack of a better word.
Anyone else have any input on Unichem brand & side effects? Going to give this a chance and hope it works
Orangebunny
6 June 2019
Hi - i am new to this site. I think i posted the other day, but i don't think it actually did.
I have bi-polar and OCD. Teva lamot is good apart from weight gain, but the other brands are awful - tummy ache, bloating, worse weight stuff in some cases, and not as effective in my mind on thoughts, mood etc. Does anyone know much about the unichem stuff? I am in the UK, and when i spoke to a pharmacy they said unichem is a supplier not a brand?!
many thanks,
Matthew
sunshinedaydream77
25 Jan 2020
Your post resonates with me. Two weeks after being forced to take Alembic lamotrigine because Cadista was unreachable for seizures, same thing sever acute panic attack. Never in my life have I experienced this, anxiety but this was a whole other ballgame. You can hear about it read about it even witness it, but you dont know until you experience it. Good luck. I have also had grand mals from supplier switches on Tegretol.
Mxkied3
29 Sep 2018
I'm in the same boat. Have been on 400mg a day of the TEVA lamotrigine. I just tried Taro and I don't think it's going to work. I have the feeling I would get in my body when I forgot to take my medicine. Like it's not enough. I've run out of TEVA while out of town before and got Unichem to hold me over for a few days. I did not have the same experience as I did with the Taro. I'm going to give this a week and if this feeling doesn't go away, I'm going to try the Unichem again.
Michael4444
29 Sep 2018
Thank you for the reply.
I had exactly the same issue. I'll let you know how the manufacturer Alembic is
Michael4444
9 Oct 2018
Update: I’ve been taking the company Alembic and felt as good or even a touch better than Tena. After a week and a half I (the last two days) started getting dizzy when I bend over to tie my shoes. I’ll give it a few more days and see how it goes. I don’t understand why it took so long for me to get this side effect. I will try Unichem if the dizziness doesn’t go away. How are you doing.
Mxkied3
12 Oct 2018
Thanks for the update! I decided to give it another week on the Taro but it's no better. I still have that uncomfortable feeling when I wake up, although it's a bit less. But I want to cry at the littlest things! Lol. And I notice more irritability. I wanted to make sure it wasn't just all in my head but it's definitely not working the same as the TEVA. I've been 100% even keeled for so long that I know this is unusual. I'm going to try the Unichem and will report back :)
Michael4444
12 Oct 2018
I called my insurance company telling them that teva worked for the past 5 years but now I really can’t find a substitute that doesn’t give me vertigo and irritable and in outer space. Trouble paying attention. The agent gave me a number to have my doctor call and request Lamictal brand name since we can’t find a replacement at no fault of mine. The insurance company approved it.
Keep me up to date on how your doing.
Michael4444
12 Oct 2018
I called my insurance company telling them that teva worked for the past 5 years but now I really can’t find a substitute that doesn’t give me vertigo and irritable and in outer space. Trouble paying attention. The agent gave me a number to have my doctor call and request Lamictal brand name since we can’t find a replacement at no fault of mine. The insurance company approved it.
Keep me up to date on how your doing.
Mxkied3
13 Oct 2018
Wow! Your insurance company approved it? And the cost isn't sky high? I never even thought to try going that route. Definitely keep me posted. If the Unichem isn't as good as the TEVA I'm going to try the same thing.
Michael4444
13 Oct 2018
They are charging me the generic price. I had the same issue many years ago while with a different insurance company and I had my my doctor contact them. They also approved name brand at generic prices. They approved it till 2023 but my company changed companies.
Albatross13
18 Oct 2018
I'm on the brand name with an approval from my insurance but it's $100 a month. Was considering going back to Teva as it worked for me years ago. Are you guys saying Teva, as a company, have stopped making non-XR lamictal, or that your insurance no longer covers their version of non-XR lamictal? Thanks.
Michael4444
18 Oct 2018
It is not being made any more. Teva was the only company who produced the generic which I didn't get any side effects from. When all the pharmacies I called didn't have any I called Teva's main office in the USA. All the make now is the time release which my insurance company wants $700 a month.
Albatross13
18 Oct 2018
Wow that is really disappointing. Teva was the only non-GSK generic which didn't give me terrible side-effects, and I'm not really interested in messing around with XR when IR has been working great for me for 10 years. Did the rep give you any insight as to why they stopped making the IR? Thanks.
Michael4444
18 Oct 2018
No. I've been on it for 5 years. It was a tough position to be in.
Mxkied3
18 Oct 2018
I was on it for 10 years too. This sucks!!! :) I feel even worse for the people that were taking Teva for epilepsy. I've seen reports of people being seizure free for years and now having seizures again because they had to switch to another generic.
Mxkied3
18 Oct 2018
Oh and as an update, the first few days switching to Unichem from the Taro was not good. Terrible thoughts/visuals came into my head. But my body doesn't feel physically ill like it did with Taro. A few more days in the visuals are fading in intensity. But that's something I've never had before, even before going on the Teva. No depression or mania kicking in but still unusually irritable. I'll take it week by week and see how it goes. I know this stuff can take a while to regulate. Hang in there :)
makingitthrough
25 Oct 2018
Hi all, I'm also facing this problem and am terrified. I've been on the Teva brand for 13 years. There have been a few times when Teva went on a hiatus and I tried a different generic. Each time I had bad side effects. Most recently I tried Torrent pharmaceuticals and it made me anxious in the morning and depressed. Today is my first day back on Torrent. Please let me know if you found another solution. Have you considered getting the 25 mg tablets from Teva? It looks like those are still available. Going to talk to my doctor and the insurance company tomorrow. This is awful but it is good to know I'm not alone or imagining things.
Michael4444
25 Oct 2018
It is mind blowing that the FDA doesn’t monitor the chemical blend in generics vs name brand. Years of trials before approving a new drug but little follow up on generic copy cats. I found best results and least side effects from Unichem Laboratories.
bvas
23 Nov 2018
I am also terrified. I found out about Teva lamotrigine this past summer. Ha anyone tried the CHEWABLES? I tried slowly combining with other manufacturers to change over and it was a nightmare. I tried grinding up the other manufacturers tablets but that didn't work.
Chumley57
20 Jan 2019
I just found this website because I have been trying to find Teva brand. My last refill was Unichem... and while I didn't have any significant side effects I definitely felt that it was less effective in keeping my irritability in check.
jamesmburgess
20 Feb 2019
My 2 daughters were on Teva Lamotrigine and it was working fine. Then I find out they no longer make it. PANIC! I started looking for a new manufacturer but I keep finding that they all seem inadequate and do not work. The best one that seemed to work was by Unichem so I started looking at it. Most of the reviews were good but still some bad. Then I stumbled upon Cipla Lamotrigine. I found few reports on it but they were all positive. Don't know if it's new. My girls have been on it for several months with no seizures and no side effects. Maybe I've found the new Teva! Time will tell but if you want to try it, my Publix pharmacy carries it and it is not expensive.
Michael4444
5 Nov 2019
If Cipla brand works for you then you have been blessed. Most of us haven't had luck finding a replacement for Teva. My suggestion: Shop for that brand and don't experiment with any others.
sunshinedaydream77
25 Jan 2020
ALEMBIC gave me acute severe panic attack, everyone is different, it has to do with our body chemistry to. I can relate so much to all of this, I am grateful for all of your posts.
Chay55
11 March 2021
For anyone having problems not having their Teva brand. DO NOT TAKE UNICHEM! It is Horrible the longer you're on it. My Dr told me the reason you can't find Teva is because they sold their formula to Alembic. It is AMAZING!! I called my pharmacy and told them ONLY TO FILL WITH ALEMBIC. I hope this helps someone
Chay55
11 March 2021
That goes away, Michael. Alembic IS Teva. Teva sold their formula to Alembic. I had that dizziness for a bit. It does go away. It is a fantastic generic. Stay on it. It only gets better!
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