Treatment of inhalant dependence with lamotrigine

The sites of action of inhalant drugs are not completely known but recent studies suggest that ion channels that regulate neuronal excitability may be particularly sensitive. Lamotrigine, a newer anticonvulsant, has a modulating effect on excitatory amino acid-glutamate. We describe the use of lamotrigine in the treatment of a patient with inhalant dependence. A 21-year-old male with no history of other substance problems complained of problems with exacerbating use of inhalants for 4 years. He received a course of individual and behavior psychotherapy for 2 months. However, the psychotherapy was not effective. He then was treated with lamotrigine 100 mg per day. He has been on the dose of this medication for more than 6 months and stopped the use of inhalants. Experience with our patient suggests that lamotrigine might be effective in treating inhalant dependence. Further controlled studies are required to confirm its efficacy in patients of this type.