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Common brand names: Tegretol, Tegretol-XR
Type of medication: Anticonvulsant
Why is this drug prescribed?
Carbamazepine is prescribed to treat certain types of seizures in the
treatment of epilepsy.
How is carbamazepine given?
Carbamazepine comes in the form of a tablet, capsule or oral suspension. It
is recommended that this medication be taken with food or milk and that the
suspension form of this medication be well shaken prior to each use. Individual
doses vary, and your doctor will tell you how much to take at each dose.
Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully. If there is any
part that you do not understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take any
more or less than prescribed and do not take it more often than prescribed. NEVER
discontinue suddenly without your doctor's assistance.
What special precautions should I follow before using this drug?
Before taking carbamazepine, inform your doctor of any prescription or
over-the-counter medications that you are currently taking; this includes any
herbal medications or dietary supplements that you are taking. Also, be sure to
tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have any other medical
conditions including:
- Drug or alcohol abuse or a history of
- Anemia
- Behavioral problems
- Glaucoma
- Heart or blood vessel disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Urinary problems
- Sleep apnea
- Kidney or liver disease
The use of carbamazepine can cause changes in your blood. Early sings and
symptoms include fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, infections and easy bruising.
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Carbamazepine adds to the effects of other central nervous system
suppressants such as alcohol and those found in many antihistamines, cold
medications, pain medications and muscle relaxants. Check with your doctor
before taking any of these items.
Because this medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, make sure you are
aware of how this drug reacts before driving or using machines that require you
to be alert.
Before you have any kind of surgery, dental treatment or emergency treatment,
tell your doctor or dentist if you are using this medication.
Your doctor may want you to carry a medical identification card or bracelet
stating that you are taking this medication.
Some people who use this medication experience increased sensitivity to
sunlight. This may result in a skin rash, itching, redness or even severe
sunburn. When taking this medicine it is best to avoid direct sunlight, wear
protective clothing such as a hat and sunglasses, apply sunblock with a SPF of
at least 15 and avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
While taking carbamazepine, oral contraceptives may not work properly and
unplanned pregnancies may occur. A different or additional form of birth control
should be used while taking this medication.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects of carbamazepine include:
- Mild drowsiness
- Mild dizziness
- Clumsiness or unsteadiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
When should I call my doctor?
If you experience any of the following side effects, contact you doctor
immediately:
- Blood in the urine or stool
- Joint or bone pain
- Painful or difficult urination
- Pain and/or swelling or bluish color in the leg or foot
- Sores, ulcers or white spots on the lips
- Red spots on the skin
- Swollen or painful glands
- Skin rash
- Increased or ongoing seizures
- Signs or symptoms of infection
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If a dose is missed, simply take it as soon as you remember if it is within
an hour of the scheduled dose. Otherwise simply skip the missed dose and proceed
with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
Carbamazepine should be kept in its original container, tightly sealed and
away from children. The tablet form should be stored in room temperature, away
from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom) and out of direct sunlight.
The liquid form of this medication should not be allowed to freeze. Any
medication that is outdated or unused should be thrown away.
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