Things to Avoid When Taking Lamotrigine

When taking lamotrigine, it is important to be aware of certain things that should be avoided in order to reduce the risk of side effects and interactions. Here are some of the most important things to avoid:

Alcohol

Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects when taken with lamotrigine. It is best to avoid alcohol completely when taking this medication, or to only consume it in very small amounts.

Drugs that Interact with Lamotrigine

Certain antibiotics, antifungals, and antidepressants can interact with lamotrigine and increase the risk of side effects. It is important to check with a doctor before taking any of these medications while on lamotrigine.

Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the levels of lamotrigine in the body, which can be dangerous. It is best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice when taking this medication.

Activities that Increase the Risk of Seizure

Certain activities, such as driving or operating machinery, can increase the risk of seizure when taking lamotrigine. It is important to be aware of this and to avoid these activities if possible.

Other Things to Avoid

It is also important to avoid smoking, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, it is important to avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated, as this can also increase the risk of side effects. Finally, it is important to avoid any activities that could lead to injury if a seizure were to occur.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as: