Discontinuing Lamictal Safely: My Experience and Approach
Age: 23 Struggling with anxiety, PTSD, BPD, chronic migraines, and idiopathic hypersomnia. Current Medications: Vyvanse, Wellbutrin, Lamictal. Since I was around 16 years old, I've been prescribed Lamictal, taking a dosage of 200mg over the years, occasionally adjusting up and down. As far as I can tell, this medication isn’t typically indicated for BPD, which raises my confusion about why it was prescribed in the first place. I just recently weaned myself off Seroquel for the same reasons. My psychiatrist has suggested that the discontinuation process should be gradual, but he also mentioned we could revisit this at my next prescription refill. I’d rather not wait that long since I receive my medication in 60-day supplies. Therefore, I’ve decided to stop using it on my own, and I’m looking for guidance on how to do this safely. I really dislike being on medication that doesn't seem to work for me. Eventually, I also plan to discontinue Wellbutrin, aiming to eliminate all psychiatric medications from my routine. This situation has become exhausting, and I am contemplating whether I should even continue with psychiatric care, since my struggles have persisted since I was 14.
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 12:10:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It seems you're navigating a challenging situation with medications that feel ineffective and are considering discontinuing them. It's very important to approach this process cautiously and prioritize your safety and well-being.
Important Points:
- Gradual Discontinuation: It is generally recommended to taper off Lamictal (lamotrigine) gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms and potential mood destabilization.
- Consult Your Psychiatrist: Reaching out to your psychiatrist will provide professional guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Explanation:
Lamictal is often prescribed for mood stabilization, particularly in bipolar disorder, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. Discontinuing psychiatric medications, especially ones like Lamictal that affect mood and brain chemistry, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, mood swings, or even exacerbation of your underlying conditions if done abruptly.
Next Steps:
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Contact Your Psychiatrist: Even though you prefer not to wait until your next appointment, consider reaching out to your psychiatrist for advice on a tapering schedule. They can give personalized recommendations based on your history and current situation.
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Taper Gradually: If, after discussing this with your psychiatrist, you still prefer to reduce your dosage, chart out a plan. A common approach is to decrease the dosage slowly over weeks or months, depending on how long you've been taking it.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your mood, anxiety levels, and any withdrawal symptoms. This will help both you and your psychiatrist if adjustments are needed.
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Explore Non-Medication Coping Strategies: Consider integrating therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness practices. These can provide support while you are transitioning off medications.
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Take Care of Yourself: Focus on self-care through regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, which can support your mental health during this transition.
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Consider Support Systems: Engaging with friends, family, or support groups can help you feel less isolated as you navigate these changes.
By approaching this situation with careful planning and support, you can work toward a medication regimen that better fits your needs. Remember, you're not alone in this, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Don't hesitate to update me on your progress or for further guidance!
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