Tegretol 300mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Novartis India Ltd
Salt Composition
Carbamazepine (300mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Tegretol 300mg Tablet is an anti-epileptic medicine used to treat epilepsy. It helps prevent certain types of seizures (fits). It is also prescribed for a painful condition of the face, head, and neck known as trigeminal neuralgia and diabetes-related nerve pain (diabetic neuropathy).
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Tegretol 300mg Tablet must be taken with or without food but take it at the same time every day. The dose and how often you need to take it will be decided by your doctor so that you get the right amount to control your symptoms. It may be increased gradually. Many other medicines can interfere with this medicine so tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking to make sure it is safe. You can take this medicine with or without food but take it regularly at the same time each day to get the maximum benefit. It is important to take this medicine for as long as you are advised even if you feel well. Missing even a single dose may trigger a seizure and if you stop taking it abruptly your condition may get worse.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Tegretol 300mg Tablet may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Safety Information
Side Effects
Nausea Vomiting Feeling dizzy Tired or drowsy Unsteadiness (balance disorder) Constipation Dry mouth Itching
Alcohol Warning
Tegretol 300mg Tablet may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Tegretol 300mg Tablet is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Tegretol 300mg Tablet is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
Interacting Medicines
Aprepitant Bupropion Clozapine Efavirenz
How it works
Tegretol 300mg Tablet is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Quick Tips
Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures. Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you. Practice yoga every day. Get enough sleep at nighttime. Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/laptop. Take your medication on time. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you. Your doctor may get regular tests done to monitor the level of blood cells in your blood while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor if you notice sudden mood changes or develop suicidal thoughts. Inform your doctor if you notice a rash or other skin changes such as reddish spot or circular patches while taking this medicine. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as it may increase the seizure frequency.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for Tegretol 300mg Tablet to start working?
It may take 1-2 weeks for your symptoms to improve, but in some cases, it can take longer. Consult your doctor if your condition doesn't improve or if you have any doubts about your condition.
Is Tegretol 300mg Tablet an analgesic? What is it used for?
No, Tegretol 300mg Tablet is not an analgesic and should not be used for regular aches or pains. It's an anti-epileptic medicine used to treat fits (seizures) and trigeminal neuralgia (intense facial nerve pain). It's also used to control mood disorders when other medicines fail to work.
What should I tell my doctor before taking Tegretol 300mg Tablet?
Inform your doctor about any other medicines you're taking, including epilepsy or seizure medications, blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), antibiotics (e.g., chloramphenicol, metronidazole, doxycycline), antiviral medications (e.g., nelfinavir), asthma medications (e.g., theophylline and montelukast), birth control pills, and any history of liver, kidney, lung, or porphyria problems.
What are the long-term effects of Tegretol 300mg Tablet?
Long-term side effects can vary from person to person. Some people may develop osteoporosis or osteopenia, which can increase the risk of bone fractures. If you're taking Tegretol 300mg Tablet for a long time, it's essential to get regular bone density checks and maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.
What should I avoid while taking Tegretol 300mg Tablet?
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery as Tegretol 300mg Tablet may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Also, avoid consuming alcohol as it can exacerbate these effects.
How do I stop taking Tegretol 300mg Tablet?
Only discontinue Tegretol 300mg Tablet under the guidance of your doctor. Gradually taper off the medication to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.
How can I look for early symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions?
Pay attention to sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all scheduled follow-up visits with your doctor and call them if you're concerned about any symptoms.
Can the use of Tegretol 300mg Tablet lead to weight gain?
Yes, Tegretol 300mg Tablet can cause weight gain due to increased appetite. To manage this, eat a healthy diet, consume low-calorie food, and engage in regular physical exercise.
Can the use of Tegretol 300mg Tablet affect my sex life?
Tegretol 300mg Tablet may cause decreased sexual desire or impair male fertility by reducing sperm count and motility. Consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
I am taking Tegretol 300mg Tablet for trigeminal neuralgia. For how long do I need to take it?
Once the pain is relieved, your doctor will gradually reduce the dose and possibly stop the medication if there's no recurrence of pain after several weeks.
How can I reduce the side effects of Tegretol 300mg Tablet?
Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it under the guidance of your doctor can help minimize side effects.
When should I go for a laboratory test when taking this medicine?
Before starting treatment, your doctor may request regular blood tests, liver function tests, and urine tests. You'll need to take these tests from time to time during your treatment.
