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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Migraines And Cluster Type Headaches While On Lamotrigine?

I have been taking Lomotrigine for 15years with no side affects. For the past 2 months, I have been experiencing migraine/cluster type headaches everyday. I have been checked out from head to toe (MRI normal) and can t understand this sudden onset of headaches which I very rarely get. I have no answers, just pain. Could I have developed a sensitivity to it all of a sudden?
Wed, 31 May 2023
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant medication that is commonly used to treat seizures and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. It is not typically associated with causing headaches or migraines, but there have been rare cases of Lamotrigine-associated headaches reported in the medical literature. You may have developed a sensitivity to the medication after taking it for a long period. This can occur with any medication, even if you have taken it without any problems for many years.

However, it is also important to consider other potential causes of your headaches. Migraines and cluster headaches are both types of headaches that can cause severe pain and other symptoms. Common triggers for migraines and cluster headaches include stress, certain foods or drinks, changes in sleep patterns, and hormonal changes. It is possible that one of these triggers is causing your headaches, and the timing of the onset may be coincidental with your use of Lamotrigine.

It is important to continue working with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your headaches and find an appropriate treatment plan. They may recommend discontinuing Lamotrigine or switching to a different medication to see if this improves your symptoms. They may also recommend other treatments for migraines or cluster headaches, such as preventative medications or lifestyle changes.

If you require a personalized response, kindly use the Ask A Doctor service and post a follow-up. Take care. Hope I have answered your question.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Migraines And Cluster Type Headaches While On Lamotrigine?

Hi, Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant medication that is commonly used to treat seizures and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. It is not typically associated with causing headaches or migraines, but there have been rare cases of Lamotrigine-associated headaches reported in the medical literature. You may have developed a sensitivity to the medication after taking it for a long period. This can occur with any medication, even if you have taken it without any problems for many years. However, it is also important to consider other potential causes of your headaches. Migraines and cluster headaches are both types of headaches that can cause severe pain and other symptoms. Common triggers for migraines and cluster headaches include stress, certain foods or drinks, changes in sleep patterns, and hormonal changes. It is possible that one of these triggers is causing your headaches, and the timing of the onset may be coincidental with your use of Lamotrigine. It is important to continue working with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your headaches and find an appropriate treatment plan. They may recommend discontinuing Lamotrigine or switching to a different medication to see if this improves your symptoms. They may also recommend other treatments for migraines or cluster headaches, such as preventative medications or lifestyle changes. If you require a personalized response, kindly use the Ask A Doctor service and post a follow-up. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician