Generic Lamictal

Just an FYI- we were pleasantly surprised when we picked up my fiance's meds the other day and after checking to make sure Lamictal wasn't Lamisil, etc etc (I am neurotic), we also noticed it was hundreds (200) cheaper and definitely did not say "Lamictal". Apparently Lamictal is finally patent-free!

I know there are issues with bioequivalency and effectiveness b/w generics and brands, but he's doing fine (better than fine after his hospitalization, thank goodness). Personally, I take synthroid b/c I had my thyroid removed and could never take the generic equivalent due to it's finicky nature with absorption and hormonal balance- but I thought I'd post this bit about Lamictal, in case some of you are struggling w/ the $$ of these darn meds.


PS...Risperdal's patent was up a couple months ago...expect the generic soon.

I have both generics...risperdal and lamictal's. I get nervous when dealing with generics...don't know why, but I guess they work ok. I got them both for the first time this month.

Hello all,

I just wanted to let you know that by law the generic and brand meds have to have the same ingredients iin order for the FDA to approve the generic. Generic is cheaper because the patent has expired, and this allows other competitive companies to produce the same meds for a cheaper price. I too used to get nervous about taking the generic brands of my meds as well, but I have not noticed any difference. As with any meds, unfortunetely this doesn't mean that the side effects go away.

Oh, I have taken generic versions of Lamictal for about 1 1/2 years and didn't notice the difference between the brand and generic version.  I have also taken generic versions of Lithium and Trileptal.

If you are really concerned you should discuss this issue with your pdoc or the local pharmacist. They are the best people to give you more info about meds.

Olivia