Experiencing Flu-like Symptoms While on Lamotrigine
Hello! I’m a 19-year-old female, weigh 150 pounds, and am a smoker. Currently, I’m prescribed lamotrigine, trazodone, and propranolol as needed. My daily dosage of lamotrigine is 75mg, and I’ve been noticing several flu-like symptoms; however, I haven’t developed any rashes. Is this something I should be concerned about? I’m uncertain if these symptoms are a reaction to the medication or if it’s due to my frequent interactions with children at my retail job. Unfortunately, I’ve been unable to reach my psychiatrist for guidance. For context, I used to take 150mg daily for a year and a half without facing any complications. My symptoms include: - A sore throat - Feeling hot frequently - Extreme tiredness - A slight cough - An irritated throat
Answers (1)
7/26/2025, 1:30:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about flu-like symptoms while taking lamotrigine, especially when you're aware of your previous stable response to the medication. Here’s a structured look at your situation.
Main Points
Flu-like symptoms can arise from various causes, including viral infections, allergies, or medication reactions. While it's good that you haven't developed a rash, which can be a concerning side effect of lamotrigine, ongoing symptoms should still be monitored.
Explanation
Your symptoms—sore throat, feeling hot, extreme tiredness, slight cough, and irritated throat—could be linked to something as straightforward as a viral infection, especially given your interactions with children who may carry germs. Changes in your environment or stress levels can also contribute to how you feel.
While lamotrigine is generally well-tolerated, some people can develop flu-like symptoms. However, the absence of a rash is a positive indicator that you may not be experiencing a serious reaction. Still, since you have multiple medical conditions and medications involved, vigilance is essential.
Next Steps
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Self-Monitoring: Keep a log of your symptoms, noting when they worsen or improve. This will help you and your doctor assess the situation better when you reach them.
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Hydration & Rest: Ensure you stay hydrated and prioritize rest. This can help your body recover if it's dealing with a viral infection.
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Over-the-Counter Care: You may consider using a saline throat spray or throat lozenges for relief from your sore throat, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with discomfort and fever (follow dosage guidelines on the package).
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Avoid Triggers: Limit exposure to irritants—such as smoke from your own smoking, allergens in your environment, or strong smells—to help reduce throat irritation.
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Monitor for Changes: Pay attention to the severity and duration of your symptoms. If you experience any worsening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, high fever, severe fatigue, or persistent cough, it becomes urgent to seek medical attention.
Final Note
If you do not see improvement in your symptoms after a few days or if your symptoms escalate, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional again. I hope you feel better soon!
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