The FDA warned doctors and patients that GlaxoSmithKline PLC's anti-seizure drug Lamictal (lamotrigine) "can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord." New warnings are expected to be added to labeling. The FDA reported receiving reports of 40 cases of aseptic meningitis between 1994 and November 2009. Thirty-five "patients needed to be hospitalized." The symptoms usually emerged in the first month and a half of treatment, and resolved after the medication was stopped. The Wall Street Journal (8/13, Dooren) reported that the drug is used to treat seizures in children and bipolar disorder in adults. Russell Katz, director of the FDA's neurology-products division, said patients who experience symptoms of aseptic meningitis "should consult their healthcare professional immediately." MedPage Today (8/12, Gever), and Reuters (8/13, Heavey) also reported the story.
