Lamotrigine and eye problems

Posted by heal33 @heal33, Mar 23, 2022

I have known I have macular degeneration and cataracts for some time now. I thought I was in early stages until I found out last fall it was in intermediate stage. I also found out I have glaucoma. I wondered for awhile if the lamotrigine could have caused these eye problems. I have no risk factors for the macular degeneration except my age.
The night before I had my appointment with my neurologist I found articles on retinal phototoxicity caused by ultraviolet light and was wondering if being in the sun had caused problems and the fact I never wore sunglasses. The retinal photoxicity was regarding lamotrigine. The articles said it absorbs ultraviolet light.
I have decided to stop lamotrigine and try another drug but he suggested Lyrica which can cause retinal detachment. I am taking clonazepam right now too which is also related to retinal toxicity. I think doctors should be more aware of side effects of drugs.
I'm thinking of trying neurofeedback but didn't have much success before. In the meantime I'm still looking for alternatives which may include trying another drug if I can find one without such serious side effects.

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@heal33 Good Morning
I agree with you, doctors should be more aware of the side effects that AEDs can cause!
With Vimpat (Lacosamide) I have developed stye and blepharitis, something I have never had before.
As I am a very sensitive person to AEDs, I have been treating myself with medical cannabis (pure CBD oil) for already 18 months, feeling much better. Have you considered this option?
Take good care of yourself!
Santosha

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I have heard but haven't considered trying it. I'd have to do some research. After my experience with lamotrigine I realize that drugs can cause some serious problems. I'm not 100% sure that was the cause of my eye conditions--cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma. I started wondering and then came upon the article of retinal phototoxicty.
Drugs can have some serious side effects. My doctor wanted me to try Lyrica which can cause retinal detachment and then he suggested gabapentin which can cause glaucoma. I wondering if he even bothers to look up side effects.

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