Carbamazepine
Works by stabilizing sodium channels in nerve membranes. It can also act as a mood stabilizer.
Dosage by Body Weight
Starts low (5 mg/kg/day) and increases slowly. Requires monitoring of blood levels and CBC.
- Body Weight
- 10-20 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg to 200 mg total daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 or 3 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid grapefruit juice as it increases drug levels.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-20 kg | 100 mg to 200 mg total daily | Divided into 2 or 3 doses | Avoid grapefruit juice as it increases drug levels. |
Formulation
Purpose
Antiepileptic used for focal (partial) seizures and trigeminal neuralgia.
Generic Name
CarbamazepineBranded Drug Names
Carbamazepine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
UNSAFECarbamazepine: Alcohol can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, breathing problems, or seizure risk. Avoid alcohol unless a specialist says otherwise.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONCarbamazepine: Use in pregnancy only under specialist advice because seizure control and fetal risks must be carefully balanced.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDCarbamazepine: May pass into breast milk and can cause infant drowsiness or feeding issues. Use only with healthcare provider guidance.
Driving
CAUTIONCarbamazepine: Can cause drowsiness, slowed reaction time, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
Liver
CAUTIONCarbamazepine: Some anti-seizure medicines can affect liver function and may require blood tests or dose adjustments.
Kidney
CAUTIONCarbamazepine: Some anti-seizure medicines require dose adjustment in kidney impairment. Use under medical supervision.