Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR
Manufacturer
Alkem Laboratories Ltd
Salt Composition
Carbamazepine (400mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR is an anti-epileptic medicine used to treat epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy.
Dosage Form
Tablet CR
Introduction
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR 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.
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. Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR 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
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR 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
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR 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
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR 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. It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
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Frequently asked questions
How quickly does Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR start working?
Symptoms of the condition treated by Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR may improve in a few weeks, but it can take up to several weeks for your situation to get better. Always consult with your doctor if your symptoms don't improve or you have any concerns.
Is Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR an analgesic? What is it used for?
No, Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR is not an analgesic and should not be used to treat regular aches or pains. It is an anti-epileptic medication used to manage seizures (fits). It is also prescribed to help with trigeminal neuralgia (a severe form of facial pain). In addition, Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR can control mood disorders when other medications fail.
What should I tell my doctor before taking Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR?
Inform your doctor about any other medicines you're currently taking including epilepsy or seizure-related medications, blood thinners (like warfarin), antibiotics (like chloramphenicol, metronidazole and doxycycline), and antiviral medications (like nelfinavir). Let them know if you take asthma medication (such as theophylline or montelukast) or any other types of medications. Also, tell your doctor about your plans for pregnancy or breastfeeding. You should mention any past issues with liver, kidney, lung, or porphyria (a rare blood pigment disorder) to your doctor.
What are the long-term effects of Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR?
The long-term side effects of Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR can vary from person to person. Some individuals may use it safely for many years, while others may experience side effects as they continue using it. These side effects might include osteoporosis and osteopenia (weakening of the bones, increasing risk of fractures). It's important to have regular bone density tests while on long-term Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR treatment. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
What should I avoid while taking Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR?
Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR can cause drowsiness or dizziness, so it's best to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how your body reacts. Also, be careful with alcohol as it can increase sleepiness when combined.
How do I stop taking Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR?
Only stop using Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR after consulting your doctor. Gradually decrease your dose to avoid a potential recurrence of the condition for which you are taking it.
How can I look for early symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions?
Pay close attention to any changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all follow-up visits with your doctor scheduled as per instructions. If you're concerned about symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Can the use of Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR lead to weight gain? If yes, how can it be managed?
Yes, Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR may cause some weight gain as a common side effect. This might be due to an increased appetite. To manage your weight, focus on consuming a healthy diet with low-calorie foods, include more vegetables and fruits in your meals, and prioritize regular exercise.
I am taking Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR for trigeminal neuralgia. For how long do I need to take it?
After your pain starts to subside, discuss this with your doctor. They may gradually reduce your dose of Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR as you progress, and the treatment can be stopped after several weeks if there is no further recurrence.
How can I reduce the side effects of Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR?
Start with a low dose of Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR to minimize side effects. Your doctor might gradually increase your dose until you reach an effective level. This is often the safest approach.
When should I go for a laboratory test when taking this medicine?
Before starting treatment with Zepcar 400mg Tablet CR, your doctor may advise regular blood tests, liver function tests, and potentially urine testing. These tests are usually conducted periodically throughout your treatment course as per the prescribed schedule.
