Tegretol (Carbamazepine)

Do’s

• Before starting Tegretol and each time you get a refill, make sure to read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.
• Tegretol should be taken by mouth with food as directed by your healthcare provider. If you are using chewable tablets, ensure to chew them thoroughly before swallowing. 
• For the suspension form, shake the bottle well before each dose. Use a special measuring device/spoon to carefully measure the dose. Separate doses of the suspension from other liquid medicines by at least 2 hours.
• The dosage of Tegretol is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on their weight. 
• To minimize the risk of side effects, your healthcare provider may advise starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it. Follow their instructions carefully.
• Take Tegretol regularly even if you feel well. Take it at the same times each day to derive the most benefit from it.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Don’ts

• Avoid using a household spoon when measuring the suspension form, as it may not provide the correct dose. 
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while using Tegretol, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medication.
• Do not discontinue Tegretol without consulting your healthcare provider, as certain conditions (such as seizures) may worsen when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your doctor may need to gradually decrease your dose based on your individual circumstances.

Common Side Effects: 

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Problems with walking and coordination (unsteadiness)
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Other Potential Side Effects: 

• Anemia or other blood problems
• Low levels of sodium in the body
• Easy bruising
• Loss of appetite

Seek medical help right away if any of these symptoms occur

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and others may occur. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the potential side effects of Tegretol.

Serious and sometimes fatal dermatologic reactions, including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), have been reported during treatment with Tegretol. The risk of developing these reactions is estimated to be higher in certain populations, such as those of Asian ancestry. Patients with ancestry in genetically at-risk populations should be screened for the presence of HLA-B*1502 prior to initiating treatment with Tegretol. Patients testing positive for the allele should not be treated with Tegretol unless the benefit clearly outweighs the risk.

Aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis have been associated with the use of Tegretol. Patients with a history of bone marrow depression or hepatic porphyrias should not use Tegretol.

Tegretol can interact with other medications, affecting their blood levels and potentially causing side effects or reducing their effectiveness. Inform your healthcare provider about all other medicines you use to avoid potential interactions.

You should not take Tegretol if you have a history of bone marrow suppression or if you are allergic to it or certain antidepressants.

Tegretol may pose risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the warnings and precautions associated with Tegretol.