Bipolar Disorder Daily News Blog

Bipolar drug Lamictal tied to birth defects

The FDA is notifying health care professionals and patients of new preliminary information suggesting that exposure to Lamictal (lamotrigine) during the first 3 months of pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of cleft lip or cleft palate in newborns.

New research suggests that babies exposed to Lamictal during the first three months of pregnancy may have a higher chance of being born with a cleft lip or cleft palate. Babies born with cleft lip or cleft palate have a gap in the upper lip or roof of the mouth.

If you take Lamictal and are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant, talk with your doctor. Lamictal is used for seizures or bipolar disorder, serious conditions that need treatment even during pregnancy. Do not start or stop using Lamictal without talking to your doctor.

More Information: FDA says Glaxo drug may be linked to birth defect (Scientific American)

FDA Web Site Warning on Lamictal