Carbamazepine Tips from Pharmacists

• Do not break, crush, or chew the extended-release tablets of carbamazepine.

• You can sprinkle the contents of carbamazepine extended-release capsules on some soft food like applesauce. However, do not crush or chew the extended-release capsules.

• Shake the suspension of carbamazepine well before use.

• Carbamazepine can make birth control pills and other forms of hormonal birth control less effective. Talk to your healthcare provider about other methods of birth control.

• Carbamazepine can cause dizziness and drowsiness as side effects. Do not drive or do anything that requires full concentration until you know how carbamazepine affects you. Avoid alcohol as it can make these side effects worse.

• Do not stop taking carbamazepine without talking to your doctor first. Stopping this medication suddenly can lead to new or worsening withdrawal seizures.

• Carbemazepine has drug interactions with many other medicines. Check with your doctor before starting or stopping any other drugs while on carbamazepine.

• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while on carbamazepine. Grapefruit can increase the blood levels of the medicine and make side effects more severe.

• Carbamazepine can make your skin light-sensitive. Be sure to wear protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors during treatment with this medication.