Carbamazepine  

Carbamazepine is used to treat simple or complex partial seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal) or mixed seizures.  It may be used alone or in conjunction with other anti-epileptic medications.

OTHER NAMES

DOSAGE FORMS

• Suspension:  100 mg/5 mL, Tegretol
• Tablets:  200 mg, Atretol, Epitol, Tegretol, Carbamazepine, Apo-Carbamazepine,Novo-carbamaz,Nu-Carbamazepine  
• Chewable tablets:  100 mg, Tegretol chewtabs
• Extended release tablets:  100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg Tegretol-XR; 200 mg, 400 mg Tegretol CR
• Extended release capsules:  300 mg Carbatrol

DOSAGE RANGE

• Adults: 800 mg-1200 mg/day
  • tablets, extended release tablets: twice daily dosing
  • tablets plus other medications, chewable tablets, suspension: 3-4 times daily
• Children under 12: 250 mg-800 mg/day
  • extended release tablets: twice daily dosing
  • tablets, chewable tablets, suspension: 3-4 times daily

 SIDE EFFECTS

• Dose related - these side effects might be experienced when carbamazepine is first initiated or when the doses are changed.  The side effects may be reduced as you continue to take this medication.

  • oscillating pupils
  • incoordination
  • headache
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • staggering gait
  • blurred vision

• Chronic - These side effects may be a result of long term use of the medication.

  • constipation
  • dry mouth
  • behavioral changes
  • tingling sensations
  • osteoporosis
  • drowsiness
  • dizziness

• Rare/Allergic - These side effects may be serious; it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • mental changes
  • infection
  • urinary changes
  • changes in the coloring of the skin or eyes
  • unexplained bleeding
  • high fever

PROPER USE AND PRECAUTIONS

• Take this medication with food if it irritates the stomach.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.
• Consult your physician if you anticipate pregnancy, become pregnant, or plan to breast-feed while taking this medication.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you become accustomed to the effects of this medication.
• Do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist advises you; some medicines have to be stopped slowly.  Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you stop taking this medication.
• Do not use carbamazepine with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (also known as MAOIs) .

 MISSED DOSES

• if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.  If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.  If you miss two or more doses,contact you physician for further instructions.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Using carbamazepine with certain other medications may alter the activity of either drug which can lead to ineffective seizure control or side effects.  If you are taking any of these medications, please inform your doctor and pharmacist.