Logem (Lamotrigine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Logem Used For?
Logem contains lamotrigine, which is used to manage epilepsy in patients over 2 years old.
Primary Uses
Logem is primarily used to treat epilepsy, including partial or generalized seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
How It Works
Logem is believed to work by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are involved in seizures.
Good to know: Logem is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Logem
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Logem.
Dosage Instructions
The dosage of Logem will depend on your age, weight, and whether you are taking other medications. It is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as directed by your doctor.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double your dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- dizziness
- movement problems
- tremors
- skin rash
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- drowsiness
- blurred or double vision
- rapid eye movements
- trouble sleeping
- irritability
- aggression
- hallucinations
- confusion
- increased activity in children
- joint, back, or stomach pain
- respiratory issues
- depression
- memory loss
- liver problems
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- liver and blood problems
- serious allergic skin reactions
- uncontrollable body movements
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the face or lips
- fever
- swollen glands
- suicidal thoughts or mood changes
Impulse Control Issues
Be aware that anti-epileptic medications like Logem may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Logem.
Who Should Not Take Logem
Do not take Logem if you are allergic to lamotrigine or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of allergies, liver or kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, or previous meningitis after taking lamotrigine with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor. Logem may affect your unborn baby, but controlling seizures during pregnancy is crucial. It is recommended to take a daily 5 mg folate supplement during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Logem can pass into breast milk, so consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should be monitored closely while taking Logem.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can affect how Logem works.
Grapefruit interaction: Consult your doctor about potential interactions with grapefruit.
- valproate
- carbamazepine
- hormonal medicines (e.g., the pill, HRT)
- other anti-epileptic medicines (e.g., phenytoin, primidone, phenobarbital)
- OCT2 substrates (e.g., dofetilide)
- rifampicin
- medications for HIV
- risperidone
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or driving while on Logem.
Alcohol
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Logem affects you, as it may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Storage
Store Logem tablets below 25°C in their blister pack, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include rapid eye movements, clumsiness, impaired consciousness, or seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Logem to work can vary based on individual response and dosage adjustments.
Logem can be taken with or without food.
No, Logem is not considered addictive.
Stopping Logem suddenly can lead to rebound seizures. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Logem.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely while taking Logem, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.