Tegretol
Tegretol (carbamazepine) is an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain reliever. It works by stabilizing hyperexcited nerve membranes, inhibiting repetitive neuronal firing, and reducing synaptic propagation of excitatory impulses.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized. Typically started at a low initial dose and gradually increased to the minimum effective level. Take with meals to reduce gastric irritation. Do not crush or chew extended-release formulations. Regular blood monitoring is recommended to check drug levels, complete blood count (CBC), and liver function.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in neonates and infants weighing less than 5 kg have not been established. Consult a pediatric specialist.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 50 mg to 100 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 to 4 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated based on 10 to 20 mg/kg/day. Start at a lower initiating dose and titrate slowly under medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg to 200 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 to 4 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Oral suspension is preferred for precise dosing in this weight range. Adjust dose weekly depending on clinical response.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 150 mg to 300 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 to 4 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor for side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or unsteady gait during titration.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 200 mg to 400 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 to 4 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed recommended daily limits. Extended-release formulations can be used if the child can swallow the tablets whole.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in neonates and infants weighing less than 5 kg have not been established. Consult a pediatric specialist. |
| 5-7 kg | 50 mg to 100 mg daily | Divided into 2 to 4 doses | Calculated based on 10 to 20 mg/kg/day. Start at a lower initiating dose and titrate slowly under medical supervision. |
| 8-10 kg | 100 mg to 200 mg daily | Divided into 2 to 4 doses | Oral suspension is preferred for precise dosing in this weight range. Adjust dose weekly depending on clinical response. |
| 11-15 kg | 150 mg to 300 mg daily | Divided into 2 to 4 doses | Monitor for side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or unsteady gait during titration. |
| 16-20 kg | 200 mg to 400 mg daily | Divided into 2 to 4 doses | Do not exceed recommended daily limits. Extended-release formulations can be used if the child can swallow the tablets whole. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of epilepsy (seizures, including partial and generalized tonic-clonic), trigeminal neuralgia (facial nerve pain), and acute manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder.
Generic Name
CarbamazepineScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.