The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Treating Loxapine (Lamictal)

Loxapine, also known by the brand name Lamictal, is a prescription medication used to treat bipolar disorder and seizures. It is an antipsychotic medication that works by affecting chemical messengers in the brain and spinal cord.

What is Loxapine?

Loxapine is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer that belongs to the lacosamide class of medications. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Bipolar disorder
• Seizures
• Migraines
• Neuropathic pain
• Fibromyalgia

How Does Loxapine Work?

Loxapine works by blocking the sodium channels in the brain and spinal cord. This prevents the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, which can lead to seizures and other symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of loxapine will vary depending on the individual patient and the condition being treated. The usual starting dose for bipolar disorder is 100 mg to 200 mg per day, taken in two or three divided doses. The dose may be gradually increased as needed and tolerated.

For seizures, the usual starting dose is 200 mg to 400 mg per day, taken in two or three divided doses. The dose may be gradually increased as needed and tolerated.

Side Effects of Loxapine

The most common side effects of loxapine include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Skin rash

More serious side effects of loxapine can include:

• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Tremors
• Dystonia
• Tardive dyskinesia

Precautions and Contraindications

Loxapine should not be used by people who are allergic to the medication or who have a history of seizures. It should also be used with caution in people who have liver or kidney disease, heart disease, or other medical conditions.

Drug Interactions

Loxapine can interact with a number of other medications, including:

• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Mood stabilizers
• Seizure medications
• Blood thinners
• Diabetes medications

It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting loxapine.

Efficacy and Safety

Loxapine has been shown to be effective in treating bipolar disorder and seizures. In a study published in the journal Bipolar Disorders, loxapine was found to be as effective as valproate in preventing mood episodes in people with bipolar disorder.

In another study, published in the journal Neurology, loxapine was found to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in people with epilepsy.

When to Call Your Doctor

You should call your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects while taking loxapine:

• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Tremors
• Dystonia
• Tardive dyskinesia

Call to Action

If you are struggling with bipolar disorder or seizures, talk to your doctor about whether loxapine may be right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between loxapine and lamotrigine?

Loxapine and lamotrigine are both anticonvulsants and mood stabilizers, but they belong to different classes of medications. Loxapine is a lacosamide, while lamotrigine is a phenyltriazine. Loxapine is also more likely to cause side effects than lamotrigine.

2. How long does it take for loxapine to work?

Loxapine can take several weeks to reach its full effect. It is important to take the medication as prescribed and to avoid missing any doses.

3. Can I drink alcohol while taking loxapine?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking loxapine. Alcohol can worsen the side effects of loxapine, including drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea.

4. Can I take loxapine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Loxapine should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is no data on the safety of loxapine in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

5. What should I do if I miss a dose of loxapine?

If you miss a dose of loxapine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not take two doses at the same time.

6. What are the long-term side effects of loxapine?

The long-term side effects of loxapine can include:

• Weight gain
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Diabetes
• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Tardive dyskinesia

Additional Information

• National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder/index.shtml
• Epilepsy Foundation: https://www.epilepsy.com/
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)