Tegretol (Carbamazepine)

Tegretol (Carbamazepine) Medication Information

Uses

Tegretol is an antiepileptic used to treat epilepsy and trigeminal neuralgia.  

Dosage

The tablets are available in different strengths:

• 100 mg
• 200 mg
• 400 mg

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Tegretol include:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unsteadiness 

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Carbamazepine.

Precautions

In patients with mixed seizure disorders Tegretol should be used cautiously.

In rare cases, after weeks or months since initiation, patients can have multi-organ hypersensitivity reactions.

Liver dysfunction can occur in patients taking Carbamazepine.

Interactions

The most common drug interaction with Tegretol included:

• Cimetidine
• Diltiazem
• Macrolides
• Acetazolamide
• Verapamil
• Grapefruit juice
• Doxorubicin
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Carbamazepine. 

Storage

Store below 86 ºF. Protect Tegretol from moisture and light.  

Pharmacist Tips

• Look for the early warning signs of skin and liver problems when starting Tegretol.
• Tegretol can interact with a lot of drugs, so make sure to speak with your doctor before starting or stopping any medications.
• Use caution when using alcohol, because it can increase the drowsiness of Carbamazepine. 

Carbamazepine FAQs

What doe Tegretol do to the brain?

Tegretol reduces the amount of glutamate released in the brain, to stabilize the electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. 

What can you not take with Tegretol?

There are a number of drug interactions with Carbamazepine, for a full list speak with your doctor. But it is best to avoid alcohol with Tegretol because it can increase your risk of drowsiness. 

What is the best time to take Tegretol?

Tegretol is typically prescribed twice a day so the doses should be taken as close to 12 hours apart as possible. 

Does Tegretol work immediately?

You should see Carbamazepine start to work in a few days. 

Does Tegretol affect memory?

It is possible that Carbamazepine can affect your memory, and cause memory problems.

Related Drugs

• Aptiom
• Depakote
• Dilantin
• Keppra

Reference:

Tegretol {package insert}. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2007.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/016608s098lbl.pdf