How To Use Carbamazepine

Carbamazepine comes in the form of oral tablets, chewable tablets, extended-release tablets, extended-release capsules, and oral suspension. The regular tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid suspension are typically taken 2-4 times a day with food. The extended-release tablets (Tegretol XR) are typically taken twice a day with food. The extended-release capsules (Equetro) are typically taken twice a day and can be taken with or without food.

Shake the oral suspension well before use. Swallow the extended-release tablets whole. Do not split, chew, or crush them. You can open the extended-release capsules and sprinkle the contents on some applesauce or other soft food. However, do not chew or crush the extended-release capsules. 

Read the prescription label and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Take carbamazepine at the same dose as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take a higher or lower dose or take the medicine more or less frequently than directed.

Your doctor may start you on a low dose of this seizure medicine and slowly increase the dose over several weeks. It can take a few weeks for you to get the full benefit of this medicine. Carbamazepine will help to control your symptoms but will not cure your condition. Continue taking the medicine even if you don’t have seizures and even if you have side effects like mood or behavior changes. Do not discontinue carbamazepine without talking to your doctor first. Stopping carbamazepine suddenly can make your seizures come back. Your healthcare provider will tell you how to slowly lower the dose of this medicine.

Missed dose: If you miss a dose of carbamazepine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.

Storage: Store carbamazepine at room temperature (between 15-30° C or 59-86° F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light in a tightly closed container. Do not store medications in the bathroom where they can be exposed to moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Unused medicine: Unused carbamazepine should be disposed of in a way that children, other people, and pets cannot get to them. Do not throw carbamazepine in the trash or flush it down the toilet. The best way to dispose of expired or unneeded carbamazepine is through a drug take-back program. Learn more about proper medication disposal. 

NOTE:  This medication guide is a summary and may not contain all possible drug information on carbamazepine. The information contained here may not be up-to-date. This sheet is for information purposes only. If you have questions about carbamazepine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for medical advice and further information.

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