Tegretol CR

Uses
Tegretol CR (Carbamazepine) is mainly used as an anticonvulsant, to prevent seizures in patients affected by epilepsy. In addition to this, it is often used to treat trigeminal neuralgia, a condition which causes severe pain in the face, as a result of the nerves transmitting pain signals to the brain, and to stabilise the mood of patients with certain mood disorders (bipolar disorder) when other drugs fail to properly prevent this.

Treatment with this drug can effectively control seizures in patients with epilepsy by preventing seizure activity in the brain. It is widely believed that it achieves this by stopping sodium from entering certain nerve cells. There have been studies conducted on other possible off label uses for this drug, including the treatment of ADHD, schizophrenia, neuromyotonia, borderline personality disorder, complex regional pain syndrome and other conditions which have not been listed here.

Dosage and Administration
Tegretol CR (Carbamazepine) comes in the form of 400mg tablets, which have been specially formulated so as to allow the gradual release of the medicine. Because this medication is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, the dosage will be decided by the doctor based on what condition is being treated, as well as the patient's medical history.

Some doctors tell their patients to start out with an initial dosage that consists of 100mg or else 200mg, taken twice per day. This may be increased by the doctor to 1600mg per day. Maintenance treatment usually requires a lower dosage, and doctors generally prescribe a dosage of 800mg to 1200mg per day, taken as divided doses. Never exceed the dosage that your doctor tells you to take.

Side effects
Patients who take Tegretol CR (Carbamazepine) might suffer from side effects, such as:

• Headache
• Blurry vision
• Dryness in the mouth
• Pain that affects the back
• Difficulty remembering things

You should inform your doctor if any side effects occur. Certain reactions are serious and will require medical treatment straight away. See your doctor immediately if you notice a rapid increase in weight, hallucinations, reduced urination or any other serious side effects.

Precautions
Your doctor may need to conduct blood tests before you commence treatment with this medicine and while you are being treated.

In rare cases, taking this drug may cause liver problems. Ask your doctor about the risk of this before starting treatment.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Tegretol CR (Carbamazepine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.