Ivax lamotrigine (generic)
We have been advised that Ivax lamotrigine is no longer being manufactured. The branded version (Lamictal) and other generics are still available. If you have any concerns, please speak to your GP or pharmacist
Drugwatch
Keppra (levetiracetam)
We have been advised by UCB Pharma that their blister packs of Keppra (levetiracetam) have details of their product in English as well as a number of other languages. It was previously written in English alone. However, UCB Pharma have assured us that there is no other change to Keppra
Ethosuximide
Zarontin capsules
We have been informed by Pfizer Limited that Zarontin capsules have now been discontinued. There is no supply left. Pfizer Limited has advised that patients currently taking Zarontin capsules should consult their GP for advice.
Emeside capsules (ethosuximide 250 mg): change of name
Chemidex Pharma Ltd has provided us with the following statement regarding Emeside capsules:
Topamax wholesale supply problems
We have been informed by Janssel-Cilag that wholesale supplies are back to normal.
13 September 2006: Pharmacies can order directly from Janssen-Cilag rather than from their wholesalers for emergency supplies.. No indication of time scale.
Carbamazepine (Generics UK)
Generics UK have confirmed that they are no longer supplying carbamazepine 100mg, 200mg and 400mg tablets. The tablets were last supplied to stockists 9-12 months ago. They have no stock of the drug left and they are not aware of any other companies who supply carbamazepine tablets. The branded version of carbamazepine, Tegretol, will continue to be available.
Generics UK advise people currently taking carbamazepine to consult their GP or pharmacist for advice.
Trileptal
Novartis have informed us that there has been a change to Trileptal tablets (oxcarbazepine). They were previously all yellow. The changes are now as follows:
- Trileptal 150 mg tablets - pale grey green
- Trileptal 300 mg tablets - yellow (remains unchanged)
- Trilpetal 600 mg tablets - light pink
They say that the reason for the changes were to make it easier for patients to identify the different strengths of tablets. There is no change in the absorption of the products (it does not affect how it works).
Keppra (levetiracetam)
UCB Pharma Ltd, the manufacturer of Keppra (levetiracetam), has informed us of a change to the size of Keppra tablets. The tablets are now 15 per cent smaller than previously, which UCB hopes will make them a little easier to swallow.
UCB said: "The colours of the new tablets are the same as the older ones. The markings are the same although there is a scoring across the middle of the new tablets... This change in size does not in any way affect the way that Keppra works, including the dosage or the effectiveness.
Lamictal
Changes to the prescribing information for the anti-epileptic drug Lamictal (lamotrigine) have been circulated to health care professionals in the UK by its manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline.
In a letter, GlaxoSmithKline said that new research shows an interaction between lamotrigine and oral contraceptives which may result in the reduced effectiveness of the contraceptives.