Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
Summary of Lamictal vs. Lidoderm
Summary for Antiepileptic
Prescription only
Lamotrigine (Lamictal) can be used alone or together with other medications to treat seizures. It's available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. The immediate-release formulation can also be used for bipolar disorder. Lamotrigine (Lamictal) can cause serious skin reactions like rash.
Summary for Local anesthetic
Prescription only
Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.
•Unknown if safe or works well in children under 2 years old (immediate release) or children under 13 years old (extended release)
Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
Pros
•Works directly on the skin
•Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
•Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
Cons
•Commonly causes skin irritation
•Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
•Might interact with many medications
Common Side Effects of Lamictal vs. Lidoderm
Common Side Effects for
Below are common side effects reported by adults who took this medication along with other treatments. Percentages can differ depending on your condition (e.g., bipolar) and your age.