Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Tegretol is indicated for the treatment of both psychomotor and grand mal seizures and also for trigiminal neuralgia. It appears to act by reducing the nerve synaptic response to stimuli and prolongs the time until the nerve can be reactivated.
Side Effects
Among the more common side effects are: dizziness, confusion, nausea, and vomiting. These usually disappear after a few weeks of therapy. Tegretol can produce a rash which can, if untreated become very severe. Please contact your physician should a rash occur. The most severe side effect is on the bone marrow where depression of marrow fuction can result in anemia (low red blood cells) and/or leukopenia (low white blood cells). Your physician will periodically follow the function of your bone marrow to monitor this effect.
Drug Interactions
The following drugs slow the metabolism of Tegretol and may increase side effects: cimetadine (Tagemet), diltiazem (a cardiac drug), erythromycin, isoniazide, niacinamide (a vitamin), propoxyphene (Darvon), phenytoin (Dilantin) and theophylline (a drug used for asthma).
Cautions and Contraindications
Tegretol should not be used with a class of antidepressants called MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors.
Usual Dose
The usual dose is 200-1600 mg (children 1000 mg) a day in divided doses.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.