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Topamax vs. Lamictal

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Topiramate (Topamax, Qudexy XR, Trokendi XR, Eprontia) and lamotrigine (Lamictal) are both antiepileptic medications used to treat seizures, but they have some key differences. Topiramate can also be used to prevent migraines, while lamotrigine can be used for bipolar disorder. Topiramate is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, as well as a liquid solution, making it versatile for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Lamotrigine also comes in various forms, including chewable and quick-dissolving tablets, as well as extended-release tablets. Topiramate can cause kidney stones and serious eye problems, while lamotrigine can increase the risk of severe skin reactions and the potential for brain inflammation (meningitis). Both medications are available as low-cost generics and interact with other medications, including birth control pills.

Topiramate

(Topamax)

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Lamotrigine

(Lamictal)

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Summary for Topamax

Prescription only

Topiramate (Topamax) belongs to the drug class called antiepileptics. It can be used alone or together with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in people 2 years and older. Topiramate (Topamax) can also be used to prevent migraines in people 12 years and older. It comes as immediate-release tablets and sprinkle capsules. The dosage is taken by mouth twice daily. Topiramate (Topamax) has many possible side effects, like weight loss and tingling of the arms and legs. It can also interact with many other medications.

Indications for Topamax

Pros and Cons for Topamax

Pros

  • Can take by itself or with other medications to control seizures
  • An option for preventing migraines
  • Also available as a sprinkle capsule that you can open and mix contents with soft food (for people who have trouble swallowing pills)
  • Approved for both adults and children (age depends on the health problem)

Cons

Common Side Effects for Topamax

  • "Pins and needles" feeling
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Low appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Nervousness
  • Depression
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Trouble remembering things
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Trouble moving or keeping balance
  • Fever
  • Mood changes
  • Change in taste

Warnings for Topamax

  • Vision problems
  • High body temperature and trouble sweating
  • Too much acid in the blood (metabolic acidosis)
  • Changes in mood and risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Problems with memory, speech, or coordination
  • Sleepiness, tiredness, and lower concentration
  • High ammonia levels in the blood
  • Serious skin reactions
  • Kidney stones
  • Risk of seizures if you stop the medication suddenly
  • Bone or growth problems in children
  • Interaction with other medications
  • Harm to an unborn baby

Summary for Lamictal

Prescription only

Lamotrigine (Lamictal) is an antiepileptic medication. The immediate-release version can treat different types of seizures as well as bipolar 1 disorder. But the extended-release version is only for seizures. Your dose depends on your age, the other medications you take, and what problem you're treating. Side effects can include dizziness, headache, and serious skin reactions. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms like seizures if you stop taking it suddenly.

Indications for Lamictal

Pros and Cons for Lamictal

Pros

  • Available in different formulations (regular immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, quick-dissolving tablets, and extended-release tablets)
  • Can use a starter kit to help with dosing when you first start the medication
  • Approved for children of certain ages with seizures (age depends on formulation)

Cons

Common Side Effects for Lamictal

Immediate release:

  • Dizziness (38%)
  • Headache (29%)
  • Double vision (28%)
  • Problems with coordination (22%)
  • Nausea (19%)
  • Blurry vision (16%)
  • Sleepiness (14%)
  • Runny or stuffy nose (14%)
  • Sore throat (10%)
  • Rash (10%)

Extended release:

  • Dizziness (14%)
  • Nausea (7%)
  • Vomiting (6%)
  • Tremor (6%)
  • Feeling tired (6%)
  • Double vision (5%)
  • Diarrhea (5%)

Warnings for Lamictal

  • Serious skin rashes
  • Serious allergic reaction
  • Overactive immune response to the medication
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Meningitis (inflammation in the brain)
  • Withdrawal seizures
  • Possible eye problems
  • Interactions with other medications

Prices with our coupons for Topamax vs. Lamictal

Price Card Drug Icon
Topiramate30 tablets / 25mg
$4.50$4.50
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Price Card Drug Icon
Lamotrigine30 tablets / 100mg
$9.00$9.00
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