PBS Lamotrigine Australia: Quick Guide to Getting and Using It

If you’ve been told you need lamotrigine for seizures or bipolar disorder, the first thing you’re probably wondering is how much it will cost. In Australia, lamotrigine is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which means you can get it at a heavily subsidised price if you meet the eligibility rules.

What the PBS Covers for Lamotrigine

The PBS pays for most of the price of lamotrigine tablets, so the amount you pay out‑of‑pocket is usually just the co‑payment amount – around $6.80 for general patients and $2.50 for concession card holders. You still need a valid prescription from a GP or specialist, and the pharmacy will check the PBS status before dispensing.

Lamotrigine is covered for two main health conditions on the PBS:

• Epilepsy – when other medicines haven’t worked or you need a specific seizure‑control plan.
• Bipolar disorder – to help stabilize mood swings and prevent depressive episodes.

If your doctor prescribes lamotrigine for a different condition, you may have to pay the full price because it won’t be PBS‑listed for that use.

How to Get It on the PBS

Follow these simple steps:

1. Book an appointment with your GP or psychiatrist. Discuss why you need lamotrigine and make sure they note the correct indication (epilepsy or bipolar).
2. Get a written prescription. The script will have a PBS item number – that’s the code pharmacists use to apply the subsidy.
3. Take the prescription to a pharmacy that’s registered with the PBS. Most major chains and independent stores are covered.
4. Pay the co‑payment amount. If you have a concession card, remember to present it for the lower charge.

If you travel interstate or use an online pharmacy, the same PBS rules apply as long as the pharmacy is Australian‑based and PBS‑approved.

Dosage, Side Effects and Safety Tips

Lamotrigine usually starts at a low dose to reduce the risk of a rash – a rare but serious side effect. Your doctor will likely begin you on 25 mg once a day and slowly increase it over weeks. Never jump to a higher dose on your own.

Common side effects include mild dizziness, headache or nausea. If you notice a rash, fever or swelling, call your doctor immediately – these could be signs of a severe reaction called Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.

Take lamotrigine with or without food, but try to keep the timing consistent each day. Missing a dose can lower its effectiveness, while taking an extra pill can increase side‑effect risk.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

Schedule a follow‑up after about a month on the medication. Your doctor will check blood levels, adjust the dose if needed, and ask about any new symptoms. Also let them know if you start any new medicines, including over‑the‑counter products, because lamotrigine can interact with hormonal contraceptives and certain antibiotics.

Pregnant or planning pregnancy? Lamotrigine is considered safer than many other seizure meds, but you’ll need close monitoring. Same goes for breastfeeding – discuss the risks and benefits.

Finally, if your co‑payment feels high or you lose eligibility (e.g., change in income), ask your pharmacist about the Safety Net thresholds. Once you exceed annual thresholds, the PBS may cover 100 % of the cost for the rest of the year.

In short, getting lamotrigine through the PBS in Australia is straightforward once you have the right prescription and understand the eligibility rules. Keep your doctor in the loop, watch for side effects, and enjoy the reduced price that the PBS offers.