Lamictal - insomnia? Is this normal? it isgreat other than this.
Question posted by AJC2021 on 18 June 2022
Last updated on 18 June 2022
On the 1st day on 25 mg and I was so excited to feel calm and not in a panic for the first time in my life!!
I drove to my sons footy game, and realized I was singing Mariah Carey, instead of worrying that I wouldn’t find parking or the correct football field. So super great day, however when it got to 11:45pm and I was still having this great day feeling I started to worry.
I took melatonin and fell asleep at around 12:50, but wide awake at 3am. Like AWAKE. It’s now 7:50 am and I feel almost drunk. Not at all like I did yesterday but a common feeling for me when I don’t sleep well. I’ve taken my 25mg an hour ago but it hasn’t had much effect.
Note: I am a terrible sleeper normally and have always relied on my antidepressant with this. It’s called Dothep but my doc believes it’s being slowly discontinued so I cannot rely on its availability.
HELP PLEASE. I am suppose to be going to a mediation retreat today and I look like something from The Walking Dead.
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Answers
WI
WildcatVet
18 June 2022
Hi, AJC! Insomnia is a common side effect of Lamictal (lamotrigine) that affects about 10% or less of users and generally resolves over several days to a week or so. It can also cause nervousness and anxiety. Let your doctor know that you're having this side effect and get their professional opinion. It may be a matter of giving it a little more time for your metabolism to adjust to the medication. Lamictal is usually started at 25mg/day. If your dosage is higher a temporary reduction might be helpful. Best regards, Wildcat PS, If your antidepressant becomes unavailable there are several other tricyclic antidepressants that might be an option for you.
Votes: +1
AJ
AJC2021
18 June 2022
Thank you very much for responding so quickly! It’s put my mind at ease knowing it might subside. I’ll call my psych tomorrow and let him know and talk about possible add ons. Have the best day!