৳ 8.52/unit
Pack: ৳ 85.20
৳ 8.52/unit
Pack: ৳ 85.20
At a glance
Carbamazepine is an antiepileptic medication used in the treatment of partial and secondary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, trigeminal neuralgia, and prophylaxis of bipolar disorder. It suppresses abnormal nerve cell activity in the brain to control seizures and pain.
Indications
- Partial and secondary generalized tonic-clonic seizures
- Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Prophylaxis of bipolar disorder
- Diabetic neuropathy (off-label)
Pharmacology
Carbamazepine depresses activity in the nucleus ventralis of the thalamus, reduces synaptic propagation of excitatory impulses, and decreases neural discharge by limiting Na⁺ ion influx across cell membranes. It stimulates ADH release and potentiates its action in promoting water reabsorption.
Dosage
Adults & children >12 years (Epilepsy): Initial 200 mg twice daily (tablets/XR) OR 1 teaspoon q.i.d. (suspension) = 400 mg/day. Increase by 200 mg/day weekly. Maintenance: 800-1200 mg/day. Max: 1600 mg/day (rare).
Trigeminal Neuralgia: Initial 100-200 mg twice daily; increase gradually. Maintenance: 400-800 mg/day (divided doses). Max: 1200 mg/day. Attempt to reduce to minimum effective dose every 3 months.
Bipolar Disorder Prophylaxis: Initial 400 mg/day (divided doses); increase gradually. Maintenance: 400-600 mg/day (divided doses). Max: 1600 mg/day.
Children (6-12 years): Initial 100 mg twice daily OR 1/2 teaspoon q.i.d. (200 mg/day); increase by 100 mg/day weekly; max 1000 mg/day; maintenance 400-800 mg/day.
Children (<6 years): Initial 10-20 mg/kg/day (divided doses); increase weekly; max 35 mg/kg/day.
Children (12-15 years): Max 1000 mg/day; >15 years: max 1200 mg/day.
Renal/Hepatic impairment: Limited information; caution required.
Side effects
Common side effects (especially during initial therapy): Dizziness, drowsiness, ataxia (loss of balance), nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, abdominal pain, anorexia, blurred vision, slurred speech, constipation, fatigue, itching.
Serious (rare): Aplastic anemia, agranulocytosis (hematological), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (skin), leukopenia, proteinuria, bradycardia, heart failure, hypotension, hepatic problems.
May cause increased sensitivity to sun; use sunscreen or protective clothing when outdoors for prolonged periods.
Use in pregnancy
Unsafe during pregnancy (Category D). Definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. May be used in life-threatening situations if benefits outweigh risks. Advise pregnant women of potential risk to the fetus. Use effective contraception during treatment.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- May cause dizziness and drowsiness; exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
- If rash, skin peeling, itching, or other unexplained skin reaction occurs, inform your doctor immediately (risk of serious skin reactions).
- If unexplained itching, yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, or flu-like symptoms occur, inform your doctor (signs of liver problems).
- Do not stop suddenly (taper gradually under medical supervision).
- Hormonal contraceptives may be ineffective; use contraceptives containing at least 50 mcg estrogen or non-hormonal methods.
- Caution in mixed seizures including absence seizures, elderly, heart disease, kidney/liver disease, psychotic illness, glaucoma, history of drug-induced blood disorders, previous carbamazepine allergy/side effects.
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms: Dizziness, drowsiness, ataxia, nausea, vomiting, seizures, coma, respiratory depression, hypotension, tachycardia, urinary retention. Treatment: Gastric lavage, activated charcoal, supportive care. Consult your doctor immediately if overdose is suspected.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.