Does not destabilize mood

Prevents bipolar depression without destabilizing mood.


Lamictal improves depression without worsening mania or any other phase of bipolar disorder. Data from multiple clinical trials in bipolar disorder indicate that Lamictal maintains equilibrium primarily by preventing depressive episodes without exacerbating mania or destabilizing mood. A pooled analysis of maintenance studies demonstrated that Lamictal has a significant preventative effect against manic episodes. The frequency of manic, hypomanic, or mixed episodes was less than or equal to placebo (not significantly different). Lamictal has a clear protective effect against depression and at least minimal efficacy, without worsening, on the manic pole.

Competitive counterclaims:

Olanzapine: No treatment-emergent mania