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Drug interactions

Lamotrigine + Sage

Severity: Minor

Lamotrigine and Sage: minor interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Some sage species, such as common sage, contain thujone, which is a convulsant at high doses. This could in theory oppose the antiseizure effect of lamotrigine, although clinical reports are lacking.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lamotrigine and Sage have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Thujone in some sage species is a GABA-A antagonist that may lower seizure threshold, opposing lamotrigine.

What to do

Advise patients with epilepsy to avoid concentrated sage oils and high-dose sage supplements. Reassess seizure control if a breakthrough seizure occurs.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
  • Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lamotrigine with Sage?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Lamotrigine and Sage have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Some sage species, such as common sage, contain thujone, which is a convulsant at high doses. This could in theory oppose the antiseizure effect of lamotrigine, although clinical reports are lacking.

How serious is the interaction between Lamotrigine and Sage?

MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients with epilepsy to avoid concentrated sage oils and high-dose sage supplements. Reassess seizure control if a breakthrough seizure occurs.

What other medicines interact with Lamotrigine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Lamotrigine with, for example, Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol, Divalproex, Dofetilide. The full list is on the Lamotrigine page.

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