FDA Says Anti-Seizure Drug Can Cause Meningitis
People who take GlaxoSmithKline’s Lamictal should be aware that it can cause aseptic meningitis, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) warned today. Lamictal is approved to treat seizures and bipolar disorder.
According to the FDA, it has received 40 reports of aseptic meningitis in children and adults since Lamictal was approved in 1994. In the majority of cases, symptoms resolved after Lamictal was discontinued. Fifteen cases reported a rapid return of symptoms following re-initiation of Lamictal.
Symptoms of meningitis may include headache, fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, rash, and sensitivity to light. In cases of meningitis, it is important to rapidly diagnose the underlying cause so that treatment can be promptly initiated. The FDA is advising any patient taking Lamictal to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any of these symptoms.
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes (the meninges) that cover the brain and spinal cord. Aseptic meningitis is generally diagnosed when tests of a patient with signs and symptoms of meningitis do not detect bacteria. Causes of aseptic meningitis include viruses and other non-bacterial infections, toxic agents, some vaccines, malignancy, and certain medications, including Lamictal.
The FDA said it is working with Glaxo to update the Warnings and Precautions section of the prescribing information and the patient medication guide for Lamictal to include this risk.
