The FDA has issued a safety alert disclosing that Lamictal (lamotrigine) can cause aseptic meningitis. Lamictal (lamotrigine) is a medication commonly used to treat seizures in children two years and older, and bipolar disorder in adults. Symptoms of meningitis may include headache, fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, rash, and sensitivity to light. In cases of meningitis, it is important to rapidly diagnose the underlying cause so that the correct treatment can be promptly begun.
The label change to disclose the risk of aseptic meningitis came after the FDA identified 40 cases of aseptic meningitis in patients who took Lamictal between December 1994 and November 2009.
Patients should immediately contact their healthcare professional if they experience signs and symptoms of meningitis while taking Lamictal. Patients or their parents can report Lamictal side effects to the FDA online HERE.
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