What Causes Itching In Scalp And Arms While On Lamotrigine?

Posted on Mon, 18 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 Answered on

Mon, 8 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been taking lamotrigine for about 7 weeks. Started at 25mg then after 4 weeks was increased every two weeks and am now taking 50mg for 2 more weeks to 75mg. I've started itching especially in the afternoon, scalp, arms etc. no rash

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Minor side effect.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

Itching is one of the possible side effects of Lamotrigine use and is considered as a minor one.

It is necessary to weight between the positive effects of Lamotrigine use in improving your mood disorders and this side effect before to consider lowering the dose or stopping it.

I think you can use drugs such antihistamines ( Benadryl for example ) and topical anti itching spray to lessen the itching.

Also it is necessary to stay away from sunlight because it may aggravate the itching.

Discuss with your Doctor about these issues.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad