Tegretol (Carbamazepine)

Description

Tegretol, generically known as carbamazepine, is an anticonvulsant. Anticonvulsant drugs are used to prevent or reduce the occurrence of convulsions and epileptic fits. While it is unknown exactly how anticonvulsants operate, most doctors theorize that the anticonvulsant blocks the transmission of pain signals from the central nervous system.

In addition to reducing or eliminating convulsions, Tegretol is also an effective drug in the treatment of nerve pain and bipolar disorder. Some doctors also prescribe Tegretol for its off label uses, such as eliminating phantom-limb syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dosage Information

As with all medications that are prescribed to you, you should take Tegretol just as your doctor recommends. While there are standard dosage requirements, your doctor may prescribe you a lower dosage based upon your body weight, gender, and the severity of your condition.

In terms of Tegretol, there are two forms: tablet and liquid form. If you are taking the tablet form, it is recommended that you swallow the entire tablet. Tegretol is not meant to be crushed.

Alternatively, if you are taking the liquid form of Tegretol, then you should shake the bottle to mix the solution.

Afterwards, measure the correct dosage and take as recommended.

Side Effects

While your doctor may do their best to prescribe you a medication that will have no side effects, sometimes side effects are an unavoidable consequence. Below are a few of the most severe side effects to be aware of.

 Dizziness
 Shortness of breath
 Fever and chills
 Nosebleeds
 Rash
 Sore throat
 Skin blistering and peeling

If you are experiencing any of these side effects, then you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. These side effects can lead to more troublesome issues; therefore your doctor may consider switching you to an alternative medication that works better with your body.

There are a number of common side effects that users of Tegretol sometimes experience. If you experience any of the following common side effects, then there is nothing to be alarmed of.

 Drowsiness
 Loss of coordination
 Vomiting
 Missing a Dose or Overdosing

When prescribing Tegretol, a doctor will usually start you an initial 200 mg dosage, which you should take two times daily. If your doctor tells you otherwise, then follow their instructions. ‘

After the initial dosage period, your doctor will likely increase the amount of each dosage to an amount near 800 mg to 12000 mg per day.

Keep in mind that these values are for an adult. If Tegretol is used to treat child epilepsy, then the dosage will be significantly smaller; never used an adult dosage on a child.

Overdose and Other Concerns

When taking Tegretol, it is necessary to take the drug only for the prescribed period and at the correct dosage. If you or someone you know wrongly consumes or overdoses on Tegretol, then seek medical attention immediately. The sooner medical attention is received, the lower the chance adverse consequences will result.

Also, if you are taking any other medication while taking Tegretol, notify your doctor so that the doctor may take the right precautions to safeguard your health.