Anti-seizure, bipolar drug Lamictal can cause meningitis
Lamictal (lamotrigine), a medication commonly used for seizures in children 2 years old and older, and bipolar disorder in adults, can cause aseptic meningitis, according to a Drug Safety Communication issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The warning will be added to the drug’s Warnings and Precautions section of the drug safety label as well as the patient Medication Guide.
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Aseptic meningitis is generally diagnosed when test of a patient with signs and symptoms of meningitis do not detect bacteria. Causes of aseptic meningitis include viruses and other non-bacterial infections, toxic agents, some vaccines, malignancy, and certain medications, such as Lamictal.
The decision to revise Lamictal’s safety label is based on the FDA’s review of adverse event reports submitted to the agency from December 1994 (when the drug was approved) through November 2009, during which a total of 40 cases of aseptic meningitis occurred in pediatric and adult patients taking Lamictal. Thirty-five of the 40 patients required hospitalization. In most case, symptoms resolved after Lamictal was discontinued. Fifteen cases reported a rapid return of symptoms following re-initiation of Lamictal.
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 treatment can be promptly initiated. Patients who experience any of the previously listed symptoms as well as drowsiness or confusion while taking Lamictal should contact their health care professional immediately.
Lamictal made medical news last May when the drug was named among other anticonvulsant medications that studies showed were associated with an increased risk of suicide, attempted suicide and violent deaths in patients taking them for the first time.
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