What is Tegretol/Carbamazepine used for?
Tegretol (Carbamazepine) is a drug used to control certain types of epileptic seizures. People who suffer from severe cheek or jaw pain caused by nerve problems such as trigeminal neuralgia can use Tegretol (Carbamazepine) for treatment. It is a type of drug known as an anticonvulsant and it functions by treating trigeminal neuralgia by altering nerve impulses in certain facial nerves; as a result, this offers pain relief.
How should I take Tegretol/Carbamazepine?
Follow your doctor's instructions as well as your prescription closely. You can take Tegretol (Carbamazepine) with or without food. Take Tegretol (Carbamazepine) on a regular schedule and at the same time each day for best effect. Continue taking Tegretol (Carbamazepine) even if your symptoms improve. If you miss a dose take it as soon as possible unless it is relatively close to your next dose, which in that case you should take it then.
How should Tegretol/Carbamazepine be stored?
Tegretol (Carbamazepine) stored in a closed container and away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
When should Tegretol/Carbamazepine not be taken?
Do not take Tegretol (Carbamazepine) if you are allergic to any ingredients in Tegretol (Carbamazepine) or tricylci antidepressants, cyclobenzaprine, or similar medicine. Also do not take Tegretol (Carbamazepine) if you have a history of bone marrow problems, the blood disorder porphyria, or other serious blood disorders, you have a severe heart problem called heart block (atrioventricular block), you are taking nefazodone, you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) or have taken an MAOI within the last 14 days.
What precautions should I follow when taking Tegretol/Carbamazepine?
Be sure to inform your doctor if you: are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding; are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement; have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances; are allergic to other seizure medicines (eg, phenytoin, phenobarbital); have a history of other types of seizures (eg, absence, atonic), increased pressure in the eye (eg, glaucoma), liver or kidney problems, mood or mental problems, suicidal thoughts or actions, or multiple sclerosis; you have a history of heart problems (eg, heart failure, heart block, irregular heartbeat), abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), high blood pressure, or high blood cholesterol; have a history of blood problems, including blood problems caused by other medicine; have previously taken Tegretol (Carbamazepine). It is very important to tell your doctor if you are taking: MAOIs (eg, phenelzine); Nefazodone; any prescriptions and nonprescription medicines used for infections, mental or mood problems, allergies, pain, high blood pressure, cancer, asthma, inflammation, aches and pains, headaches, HIV, blood thinning, thyroid problems, seizures, birth control; multivitamin products; and herbal or dietary supplements (eg, St. John's wort) as these will increase the risk of side effects.
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Tegretol/Carbamazepine?
Be aware that while taking Tegretol (Carbamazepine) eating grapefruit or consuming grapefruit juice can increase the risk of Tegretol (Carbamazepine)'s side effects. Also, do not suddenly stop taking Tegretol (Carbamazepine) as it will increase side effects and seizures. Even if you start feeling better, continue taking Tegretol (Carbamazepine).
What are the side effects of Tegretol/Carbamazepine?
Most severe:Severe Tegretol (Carbamazepine) side effects include (Seek immediate medical attention): black, tarry, or bloody stools; calf pain, swelling, or tenderness; change in the amount of urine produced; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; decreased coordination;
Most common:Common Tegretol (Carbamazepine) side effects include: dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; nausea; unsteadiness; vomiting.
Other:Severe Tegretol (Carbamazepine) allergic reactions include (Seek immediate medical attention): hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue.