About carbamazepine usp
Anticonvulsant; sodium-channel blocker
Used for
- Certain types of epilepsy, including focal and tonic-clonic seizures
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Bipolar disorder when other treatments are unsuitable
Usual adult dose
Epilepsy: usually starts at 200 mg twice daily, adjusted gradually. Trigeminal neuralgia: usually starts at 100 mg twice daily, adjusted gradually.
Usual dose in children
Epilepsy: doses depend on age and weight; treatment is started low and adjusted by a specialist.
Common side effects
- Dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Low sodium or changes in blood counts
Important warnings
- Can rarely cause severe skin reactions or serious blood disorders.
- Seek urgent care for rash with blisters, facial swelling, fever, or mouth sores.
- Do not stop suddenly; seizures may worsen.
- Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole unless the product leaflet says otherwise.
Pregnancy
May increase birth-defect risk and affect folate levels; treatment needs specialist review. Do not stop suddenly during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
Often compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for sleepiness, poor feeding, or jaundice.
Interactions
- Many medicines affect carbamazepine levels; it also changes levels of numerous medicines.
- Hormonal contraceptives may become less effective.
- Avoid grapefruit, which can raise carbamazepine levels.
- Alcohol can worsen dizziness and drowsiness.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.