Foods to Avoid While Taking Lamotrigine

Reviewed by: Dr. Ritu Budania



Disclaimer: Informative, not prescriptive.

Foods that Trigger Seizures

Epilepsy triggers can include certain foods and additives like MSG in soups, aspartame in diet sodas, and nitrates in cured meats. Avoiding these might help with seizures.

Grapefruit

To ensure lamotrigine works effectively, it's best to avoid grapefruit and its juice. Consuming grapefruit products can interfere with the lamotrigine effectiveness.

Alcohol

Alcohol can worsen the nervous system side effects of lamotrigine, like drowsiness and trouble concentrating.

Tyramine-rich foods

Avoid tyramine-rich foods like cheese, pickled vegetables, and citrus fruits while taking lamotrigine, as they can cause a dangerous build-up of tyramine in the body, potentially leading to high blood pressure.

Kava Kava

Kava kava, renowned for its calming effects, has the potential to amplify the sedative properties of lamotrigine. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid using them together.