Tegretol Chewables (Carbamazepine)

Do’s

• Take Tegretol exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, typically by mouth with food.
• Chew chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
• Shake the suspension form well before measuring each dose with a special measuring device/spoon (not a household spoon).
• Take Tegretol at the same time each day for consistent results.
• Continue using Tegretol as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you feel well. Stopping abruptly can worsen some conditions.
• Discuss with your healthcare provider a gradual dosage reduction plan if you need to stop taking Tegretol.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Tegretol than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't use a household spoon to measure the liquid suspension, as inaccurate dosing can occur.
• Don't take Tegretol with grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider says it's safe. Grapefruit can increase side effects.
• Don't stop taking Tegretol without consulting your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Unsteadiness
• Blurred or double vision
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Swelling of the hands or feet
• Weight gain or loss
• Changes in appetite

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe rash
• Having the gene does not guarantee the development of a severe rash.
• Other potential rare but serious side effects of Tegretol include aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Tegretol chewables, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Let your healthcare provider know if you have allergies to Carbamazepine, other anti-seizure medications, tricyclic antidepressants, or any ingredients in Carbamazepine (especially sorbitol in the suspension).

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing health issues, particularly bone marrow problems, blood disorders, glaucoma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, mental health issues, or mineral imbalances.

Carbamazepine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, and worsen these effects with alcohol or marijuana use. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness or clear vision until these effects subside. Limit alcohol consumption and discuss marijuana use with your healthcare provider.

Carbamazepine may increase sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure, wear sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors, and seek medical attention for sunburn or skin irritation.

The chewable tablets or suspension may contain sugar. Consult your healthcare provider if you have diabetes or need to limit sugar intake.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including Carbamazepine) before any surgery.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially confusion, unsteadiness, or irregular heartbeat. Be aware of increased fall risk and discuss the potential for low sodium levels with your healthcare provider.

Carbamazepine may harm an unborn baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, especially if you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Consider alternative birth control methods as Carbamazepine may interfere with some contraceptives.

Carbamazepine passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.