Carbatrol

Generic name: Carbamazepine extended-release

What is Carbatrol?

Carbatrol is an extended-release formulation of carbamazepine which is indicated for treatment of seizures (partial, grand mal, mixed) and facial/head pain (trigeminal neuralgia).

What is the most important information I should know about Carbatrol?

Carbatrol has the risk of potentially dangerous side effects, it is very important to thoroughly assess the use of Carbatrol with your doctor. A detailed history and physical examination is needed to determine if you are qualified for treatment. Also, do not take Carbatrol if you have been taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (e.g., certain anti-depressants) within 14 days of initiating Carbatrol therapy.

Who should not take Carbatrol?

Patients with hypersensitivity to Carbatrol and its ingredients in this preparation should not take this medication. You should not take this drug if you have a previous allergic reaction to amitriptyline, desipramine, imipramine, protriptyline and nortriptyline. Also, do not take Carbatrol if you have been taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (e.g., certain anti-depressants) within 14 days of initiating Carbatrol therapy.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Carbatrol?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Carbatrol. Also, talk to your doctor about you complete medical history, especially blood disorders.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Epilepsy

Adults: The usual initial dose is 200 mg twice daily, which can be increased in weekly intervals up to 200 mg per day until optimal response is obtained. Dose should be kept at minimal effective dose, usually in the 800-1200 mg daily range.

Children under 12 years of age: Children taking total daily doses of immediate release carbamazepine of 400 mg or greater may be converted for extended release formulation.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

The usual initial dose is 200 mg on the first day. The dose may be increased by up to 200 mg a day every 12 hours as needed for pain relief. Do not exceed 1200 mg daily. In addition, after 3 months of therapy, a gradual dose reduction is recommended.

How should I take Carbatrol?

Carbatrol is intended for twice a day administration. Take Carbatrol at the same time with food. Do not chew, crush or cut the capsules.

What should I avoid while taking Carbatrol?

Avoid driving and operating machinery. Use contraception when having sex.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Carbatrol?

If Carbatrol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Carbatrol with the following:: acetaminophen, acetazolamide, alprazolam, amitriptyline, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconozole and ketoconozole), bupropion, buspirone, cimetidine, cisplatin, citalopram, clarithromycin, clonazepam, clozapine, cyclosporin, dalfopristin, danazol, delavirdine, desipramine, diltiazem, dicumarol, doxycycline, doxyrubicin, ethosuximide, erythromycin, felbamate, felodipine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, glucocorticoids, grapefruit juice, haloperidol, isoniazid, lamotrigine, levothyroxine, loratadine, lorazepam, methadone, methsuximide, midazolam, mirtazapine, nefazadone, niacinamide, nicotinamide, nortriptylline, olanzapine, oral contraceptives, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir), propoxyphene, quetiapine, quinine, quinupristin, rifampin, risperidone, theophylline, topiramate, tiagabine, tramadol, triazolam, trazodone, troleandomycin, valproate, verapamil, warfarin, ziprasidone, zileuton, and zonisamide.

What are the possible side effects of Carbatrol?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: Blood disorders (agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, and bone marrow suppression), rash, itching, heart disorders (edema, heart failure, hypertension, and hypotension), fever, pneumonia, urinary frequency, urinary retention, kidney impairment, impotence

Can I receive Carbatrol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The use of Carbatrol is not recommended in women who are or may become pregnant. It is important to advise women of child-bearing potential to use contraception while taking Carbatrol due to the potential harm to the baby.

In addition, Carbatrol should not be given to nursing mothers, as it may cause potential harm to the baby.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Carbatrol?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip it and resume your scheduled dose. Do not double up.

How should I store Carbatrol?

Store at room temperature. Protect from light and moisture.