That rash stuff first scared me too The doc and my former doc where I lived before eased my mind about the chances being slim, especially about the near fatal one, that is very rare and occurs more commonly in children.
No I did not experience any side effects, no rashing, nada !
The way is that the doc (which I am sure he will) starts you at low doses and gradually increases it till he has you at therapeutic level (referred to as titration). Now bear in mind what has worked for me like a charm, doesn't mean it will for another person and vise versa, but I got to a point I'd try anything, I was tired of being so depressed constantly, and miserable to be around.
I'd say give it a try but be sure it is being prescribed by your psychiatrist if this is for psychiatric purposes, GP's do not know how to work with this for psyc. disorders, this drug is also used (originally) for epilepsy. I hope you have as great outcome with Lamictal as I have, if you choose to take it.
Take care,
"darkeyes"

PS What's nice it doesn't cause weight gain