Carbamazepine

Description

Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing medication commonly used to treat seizures, nerve pain, and bipolar disorder. It works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain and stabilizing mood by influencing neurotransmitters.

Uses / Indications

• Partial seizures
• Tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal seizures)
• Trigeminal neuralgia (nerve pain in the face)
• Bipolar disorder (acute mania)
• Neuropathic pain

Dosage and Administration

Adults:
Initial dose is usually 200 mg twice daily, which may be adjusted based on response and tolerance.

Children:
Dosage is determined based on weight and medical condition; typically starting at 10-20 mg/kg daily, divided into several doses.

Note: Dosage may vary based on medical condition or doctor’s advice.

How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

Carbamazepine acts primarily by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels in the central nervous system, which stabilizes neuronal membranes and reduces excitability, preventing seizure activity and alleviating pain.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision

Rare/serious side effects:

• Serious skin reactions (rash, blistering)
• Low blood cell counts (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)
• Liver damage (elevated liver enzymes)

Seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Precautions / Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver issues, heart disease, or blood disorders.
• Caution is advised if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor for potential side effects.

Drug Interactions

May interact with:

• Antidepressants
• Antifungal medications
• Oral contraceptives (may reduce efficacy)
• Other antiepileptic drugs

Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you’re taking.

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (15°C–30°C / 59°F–86°F)
• Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct light
• Keep out of reach of children

Missed Dose / Overdose

Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.

Overdose symptoms:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Severe dizziness or drowsiness
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Nausea and vomiting

Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical help immediately.

Contraindications

• History of hypersensitivity to Carbamazepine
• Certain types of bone marrow suppression

Brand Names / Alternatives

• Tegretol
• Equetro
• Carbatrol
• Teril
• Generic name: Carbamazepine