Can lamotrigine be causing my neuropathic symptoms to get worse?

@axeddie
It possibly could worsen neuropathy. Although there are differing opinions. Studies have shown it to cause optic neuropathy where it affects the optic nerve. There are other anticonvulsants like Dilantin and Phenobarbital more likely to cause it. My neuropathy is believed to have been caused by taking anticonvulsants. Specifically, Dilantin, Phenobarbital and Depakote among others. Are you taking lamotrigine for a seizure disorder. In my opinion, which I know doesn't mean much, but I think virtually all seizure medications have some effect on neuropathy especially if taken in high doses and/or taken for a long time. I have been on them for 59 years.
Have you asked your doctor? I'd be interested in his opinion.
Take care,
Jake

Hello,
So sorry about your currect condition. Below is what I was able to gather for you from the internet. It's definitely alarming and you should look into it:

"While Lamotrigine can be used to manage neuropathic pain, including peripheral neuropathy, it's important to be aware of potential side effects, especially for individuals with pre-existing peripheral neuropathy.
Common Side Effects of Lamotrigine:
Skin rash: A significant concern with lamotrigine is the potential for skin rashes, which can sometimes be severe. Any new or worsening rash should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Dizziness: Dizziness and lightheadedness are commonly reported side effects.
Headache: Headaches are another common side effect.
Double vision: Some individuals may experience double vision or other visual disturbances.
Lack of muscle coordination: This can manifest as clumsiness or unsteadiness.
Nausea and vomiting: Stomach upset is a potential side effect.
Somnolence: Feeling drowsy or excessively sleepy is a possible side effect.
Less Common but Important Side Effects:
Mood changes: Lamotrigine can affect mood, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, or agitation in some individuals.
Suicidal thoughts: In rare cases, lamotrigine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Aseptic meningitis: This rare but serious side effect involves inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fever, stiff neck, headache, and sensitivity to light.
How Lamotrigine Might Interact with Peripheral Neuropathy:
Worsening of neuropathic pain: Although lamotrigine is sometimes used to treat neuropathic pain, it could potentially worsen pain in some individuals with pre-existing peripheral neuropathy.
Sensory disturbances: Lamotrigine itself can cause sensory changes like numbness, tingling, or burning, which might overlap with or exacerbate existing neuropathy symptoms.
Important Considerations:
Dosage adjustment: Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it, as recommended by your doctor, is essential to minimize the risk of side effects.
Drug interactions: Lamotrigine can interact with other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Be sure to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are crucial to monitor for side effects and evaluate the effectiveness of lamotrigine in managing your pain."

Wishing you the best.
Take care and have a serene day,
gus

I was taking it for persistent headache and had to stop after a week. Was soooo dizzy and eyes were sooo dry. Headache was worse. Pick you poison.

@jakedduck1, I am taking it for peripheral neuropathy. I was on gabapentin but experienced cognitive side effects.

@gus0557, I have mentioned the worsening pain to my Dr and at this point he still recommends staying on the lamotragine. I haven't reached full dosage yet.

I am told my p.n. is ideopathic. I have type II diabetes but it is well controlled through diet. rarely I will fall off the wagon and have some processed sugar. I am trying to tell if that is playing a role. But I don't think so. The worsening of pain has been consistent since I reached about the 25mg in the morning and 25mg in the evening of the lamotragine. recently I start at 50 and 50.

I do wonder if this is psychomatic in some way - if my anxiety about the medicine is causing the increase in pain. The anxiety would be due to my experience with gabapentin. It took me a long time to get off the gabapentin - being able to lower it and deal with the subsequent increase in pain. I have been told so often that cognitive impairment due to gabapentin is rare so I wondered if that was psychosomatic. But, that said, a fog did lift once the gaba was greatly reduced and the failures and negative feedback I had been getting at work have ended.

Thank you both for your input.