I just started taking lamotrigine three days ago, I started taking 25mg at night and now I take 50mg, 25mg in the morning and 25mg at night. I noticed I had a really bad anxiety today, and felt tired. Will the anxiety go away with time if I’m experiencing it now? Is this just a response to getting on a new med? I take bupropion and have been for 2 years now. Has anyone else experienced anxiety or panic attacks at the beginning of their treatment and has it gone away??
Lamotrigine - Does my anxiety go away at the beginning of treatment?
Question posted by Katya619 on 2 July 2021
Last updated on 2 July 2021 by WildcatVet
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Answers
WildcatVet
2 July 2021
Hi, Katya!
New or increased anxiety, nervousness, and fatigue are all common side effects for some people when first starting lamotrigine. Panic disorder is uncommon but has been reported.
Side effects like these generally subside over a few days to a week or two and they usually lessen day by day.
You may also be right about the anxiety being partly over starting the medication. Or anxiety over your anxiety making it worse.
I'd give it a couple more days but if they persist let your doctor know. It may be that your metabolism will adjust better if you stay on the lower dose temporarily. I started at 25mg also but I took it for a full week before my doctor raised my dose and I did fine with it.
Best regards and I hope the lamotrigine helps you as much as it has me.
Related topics
depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, lamotrigine, treatment
Further information
- Lamotrigine uses and safety info
- Lamotrigine prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lamotrigine (detailed)
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