A retrofit lamp includes at least one series circuit having a multiplicity of LEDs having a circuit arrangement. The at least one series circuit including is coupled between a first rectifier output connection and a second rectifier output connection. A breakdown apparatus is coupled between a third connection terminal and a fourth connection terminal. The breakdown apparatus may have the following properties: up to a first threshold value of the voltage drop across said breakdown apparatus during operation, the breakdown apparatus is nonconducting. If the first threshold value is exceeded, the breakdown apparatus becomes conducting. The breakdown apparatus remains conducting as long as current is supplied to it which is above a second threshold value. As soon as the current falls below the second threshold value, the breakdown apparatus becomes nonconducting again. In the conducting state, the breakdown apparatus has a forward voltage which is below a third threshold value.