The Sound of Evolution
Lamotrigine
Mechanism of action:
Lamotrigine's detailed mechanism is not yet fully understood, but it is known to inhibit sodium channel activation during high-frequency firing, thereby reducing pathological repetitive discharges. By decreasing action potential propagation at nerve terminals, lamotrigine reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate and aspartate, thereby decreasing excessive excitation within neural networks.
Reference(s):
1. Backonja M et al. (2004). Neuromodulating drugs for the symptomatic treatment of neuropathic pain. Curr Pain Headache Rep.
2. Barbosa L et al. (2003). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of augmentation with lamotrigine or placebo in patients concomitantly treated with fluoxetine for resistant major depressive episodes. J Clin Psychiatry.
3. Jensen TS et al. (2002). Anticonvulsants in neuropathic pain: rationale and clinical evidence. Eur J Pain.