Allergic skin rash with lamotrigine and concomitant valproate therapy: evidence for an increased risk

Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 1996 Mar;54(1):47-9. doi: 10.1590/s0004-282x1996000100008.

Abstract

Cutaneous rash is one of the commonest adverse events associated with lamotrigine. We assessed whether the risk is increased in patients receiving concomitant valproate therapy in a population of 103 adult patients with intractable epilepsy, who had lamotrigine added to their treatment. Of the 33 patients taking valproate, 10 (30%) developed a rash, whilst of the 70 not taking valproate, only 6 (8%) developed a rash. This suggests a significantly higher risk of cutaneous rash when starting lamotrigine in patients already taking valproate (p < 0.02).

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lamotrigine
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Triazines / adverse effects*
  • Valproic Acid / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Triazines
  • Valproic Acid
  • Lamotrigine