lamotrigine (Lamictal)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if a mood stabilizer like lamotrigine (Lamictal) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
bipolar disorder

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is a mood stabilizer?

Mood stabilizers are a class of medication that helps support mood stability for mental health conditions like bipolar disorder.

How does a mood stabilizer work?

Mood stabilizers work by regulating the activity of nerve cells in the brain, which can protect against manic or depressive episodes.

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FAQs about lamotrigine (Lamictal)

What is lamotrigine (Lamictal) used for?

Lamotrigine (Lamictal) is a mood stabilizer, a type of medication used to treat mood disorders, like bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers work by reducing the severity and frequency of symptoms like mood and energy fluctuations.

Does lamotrigine (Lamictal) help with fidgeting?

For some people, fidgeting or restlessness can be a symptom of bipolar disorder, which lamotrigine is effective to treat. However, fidgeting can occur for many reasons, so make sure to speak with a licensed clinician to discuss this.

Is the prescription drug lamotrigine (Lamictal) in short supply?

Both generic and branded lamotrigine (Lamictal) have previously been difficult to access due to a shortage caused by reported manufacturing issues. If you are having difficulty accessing your medication, please speak with your provider.

What happens if you take lamotrigine (Lamictal) and are not bipolar?

You should not take any medication, including lamotrigine, unless it has been prescribed to you by your provider and you have a condition that can be treated by that medication. Lamotrigine can be prescribed for bipolar disorder, a seizure disorder, and is sometimes prescribed adjunctively for other diagnoses.

Does lamotrigine (Lamictal) cause weight gain or loss?

Unlike many other mood stabilizers, lamotrigine (Lamictal) has not been found to significantly impact weight.

How long does it take for lamotrigine (Lamictal) to work?

While mood stabilizers like lamotrigine can be effective at low doses, it will likely take weeks to reach a therapeutic dosage. This is because lamotrigine carries a rare but serious health risk that is monitored and managed by increasing its dosage more slowly than other medications. It is essential to follow your provider's exact instructions to safely and effectively start this medication.

Does lamotrigine (Lamictal) make you sleepy?

You may feel more tired than usual when you first start taking lamotrigine or if you increase your dose. These side effects typically resolve over time, but talk to your provider if they persist or make it difficult to manage daily life.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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