Epitra
Generic Name
Lamotrigine
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| epitra 1 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Epitra 1 mg Tablet contains Lamotrigine, an anti-epileptic medication used to treat various types of seizures and bipolar disorder. It helps to stabilize electrical activity in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies greatly depending on the indication, concomitant medications, and patient response. Typically starts with a low dose (e.g., 25 mg daily or every other day) and gradually increased over several weeks.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but titration should be done more cautiously due to potential age-related physiological changes.
Renal_impairment
Reduced maintenance dose may be necessary. Initial doses typically follow standard guidelines, but subsequent doses should be adjusted based on creatinine clearance and clinical response.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush.
Mechanism of Action
Lamotrigine stabilizes neuronal membranes and modulates the release of excitatory neurotransmitters (e.g., glutamate and aspartate) by blocking voltage-sensitive sodium channels. It also weakly inhibits calcium channels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may take several weeks to become apparent, especially during titration.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine as glucuronide conjugates (about 94% of the dose).
Half life
Approximately 25-33 hours (can vary with concomitant medications).
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations reached within 1.5 to 4.5 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by glucuronidation (UGT enzymes).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to lamotrigine or any components of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Valproate
Increases lamotrigine levels by about two-fold, necessitating a lower starting dose and slower titration of lamotrigine.
Oral Contraceptives (containing estrogen)
May decrease lamotrigine levels, requiring dose adjustments.
Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone
Decreases lamotrigine levels by about 40%, requiring higher doses of lamotrigine.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nystagmus, ataxia, dizziness, headache, somnolence, and rarely, coma. Management is primarily supportive care, including gastric lavage or activated charcoal if appropriate. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Lamotrigine is excreted in human milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA, Bangladesh
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic versions available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of Lamotrigine in epilepsy and bipolar disorder. Ongoing research explores its use in other neurological conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor for rash, especially during initial weeks.
- Consider monitoring lamotrigine plasma concentrations if there are concerns about compliance, toxicity, or lack of efficacy (though not routinely recommended).
- Monitor liver function tests periodically.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize slow titration to minimize rash risk, especially when co-administered with valproate.
- Educate patients on symptoms of serious dermatologic reactions and the importance of immediate reporting.
- Consider potential drug interactions, especially with enzyme-inducing AEDs and oral contraceptives.
- Monitor mood changes and suicidal ideation, particularly during initiation or dose changes.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your condition.
- Report any new or worsening rash, fever, or swollen glands to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness, blurred vision, or drowsiness, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution until you know how Epitral affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption, as it may increase the side effects of lamotrigine.
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins you are taking.
- Carry an identification card indicating you are taking an anti-epileptic drug.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.