Antiepileptic (sodium channel blocker)
Lamotrigine with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Lamotrigine (Lamotrigine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Lamotrigine at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Antiepileptic (sodium channel blocker) agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Lamotrigine at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Lamotrigine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Lamotrigine is co-administered. Adjusted 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lamotrigine during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Lamotrigine is metabolised and may need a temporary 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Lamotrigine regimen.
Will antibiotics make Lamotrigine stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Lamotrigine efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Lamotrigine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Lamotrigine
More on Lamotrigine
- With alcoholLamotrigine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Lamotrigine be taken with food?
- Side effectsLamotrigine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideLamotrigine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Lamotrigine start working?
- DurationHow long does Lamotrigine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.