Carbatrol ER (Carbamazepine)

Do's

• Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions exactly. This includes taking the correct dosage, at the prescribed frequency, and for the duration of treatment.
• Take Carbatrol ER capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or break them open.
• Take Carbatrol ER capsules with food or milk. This can help to reduce stomach upset.
• Tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Carbatrol ER can interact with some medications.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Carbatrol ER can cause birth defects.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding. Carbatrol ER can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby.
• Be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects of Carbatrol ER include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Report any side effects to your healthcare provider, especially if they are severe or persistent.
• Maintain a consistent schedule. Taking Carbatrol ER at the same time each day can help you avoid missed doses.

Don'ts

• Do not stop taking Carbatrol ER suddenly. This can cause serious side effects, including seizures. Talk to your healthcare provider before stopping this medication.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Taking too much Carbatrol ER can be dangerous.
• Do not operate machinery or drive a car if you experience dizziness or drowsiness after taking Carbatrol ER.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Carbatrol ER. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects.
• Do not use grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Carbatrol ER. Grapefruit can interact with the medication and increase its levels in your body.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness

Serious Side Effects:

• Serious blood problems
• Life-threatening skin rash or allergic reaction
• Signs of liver problems, such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine
• Signs of kidney problems, such as change in the amount of urine
• Mouth sores
• Fainting
• Fast/slow/irregular heartbeat
• Unusual eye movements (nystagmus)
• Vision changes, such as blurred vision
• Joint pain
• Swelling of the ankles/feet

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Carbatrol er, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

This includes any allergies you have, medications you are currently taking (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements), any existing medical conditions (especially liver, kidney, heart, or blood disorders, glaucoma, or mental health conditions), and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take to avoid potential interactions. Certain medications can increase or decrease the effects of Carbatrol ER.

Stopping Carbatrol ER suddenly can worsen your seizures. Your healthcare provider will gradually decrease your dosage to safely wean you off the medication.

Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how Carbatrol ER affects you.

Carbatrol ER may increase your risk of sunburn. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.

Carbatrol ER may cause mood swings, depression, or suicidal thoughts. If you experience any changes in mood or behavior, talk to your healthcare provider immediately.

Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood cell count and liver function with regular blood tests.

Report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider, especially if they are severe or persistent.