How to Combine Lamictal & Topamax

Lamictal and Topamax are both anticonvulsant medications used to prevent seizures in epileptic patients. However, both medications also can be used to treat other conditions, such as bipolar disorder. Both medications act as mood stabilizers for many people with bipolar disorder. In particular, Topamax may be prescribed for people who have not had luck with other treatments for their disorder and those who suffer from rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. Lamictal also works as a mood stabilizer and is also beneficial for those who also have not responded to other mood-stabilizing medication. In contrast to other medications in this class, Lamictal does not usually induce troubling side effects. Lamictal and Topamax are sometimes used together to treat bipolar disorder. Lamictal has more of an antidepressant side effect than does Topamax, which is why they may be used together.

Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Have a full physical done, including blood and urine tests. This is important as thyroid disorders and endocrine disorders should be ruled out, as they can exacerbate mood disorders.

• 2

  Discuss with and obtain a treatment plan from your doctor. A specific treatment plan is needed when you are planning to take Lamictal and Topamax together. Obtain the prescriptions for both medications from your doctor. It's likely that the doctor will start you on Lamictal first, as you have to start with a low dose and work your way up to the proper dose.

• 3

  Begin taking Lamictal at the same time daily. That time will have been determined by your doctor. It's generally taken either first thing in the morning or first thing in the evening. Follow the dosage instructions exactly. Your dose will likely be increased once per week by your doctor until you are at the desired range.

• 4

  Discuss when and how to being taking Topamax with your doctor. He will advise you as to whether you should take it with the Lamictal or at a different time of day. Your body may respond differently to Topamax than it does to Lamictal.

• 5

  Begin taking the Topamax as advised by your doctor. Keep track of how it makes you feel. If you are are feeling more tired taking the Topamax in addition to Lamictal, let your doctor know and experiment with taking it at a different time of day. Do the same if you find that it makes you more awake.