Tegretol CR 200mg Divitabs x50

Tegretol CR 200mg Divitabs is a controlled-release formulation of carbamazepine, a potent anticonvulsant medication. This advanced formulation provides steady medication levels, offering effective treatment for epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and bipolar disorder.

Uses

Tegretol CR 200mg Divitabs is primarily prescribed for:

• Treatment of epilepsy and seizure disorders
• Management of trigeminal neuralgia (severe facial pain)
• Control of bipolar disorder

Benefits

• Helps control seizures in people with epilepsy
• Relieves pain from trigeminal neuralgia
• May help stabilize mood in bipolar disorder
• Controlled-release formulation maintains steady blood levels
• Once-daily dosing improves patient compliance

How It Works

Carbamazepine works by reducing electrical activity in the brain, helping to prevent seizures. It also blocks pain signals from the trigeminal nerve, which serves the face, head, and neck. In bipolar disorder, it’s thought to stabilize mood by modulating neurotransmitter activity.

Duration of Action

Tegretol CR 200mg Divitabs has a prolonged duration of action due to its controlled-release formulation. After oral administration, it provides therapeutic effects for approximately 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. The extended-release technology helps maintain steady blood levels of carbamazepine throughout the day, reducing fluctuations that can lead to breakthrough symptoms or side effects.

Dosage

The usual starting dosage for adults is 200mg to 400mg once a day. The dosage may be increased gradually as needed, based on individual response and tolerability. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dosing and administration.

How to Use

Tegretol CR 200mg is taken once a day with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed, as this can affect the controlled-release mechanism.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea and headache
• Skin rash

More serious but less common side effects can include:

• Liver damage
• Blood disorders
• Severe allergic reactions
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a rare and serious skin condition)

Warning

Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and blood cell counts. Patients should be vigilant for signs of severe skin reactions or allergic responses. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to seizures, so dosage should be reduced gradually under medical supervision.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Carbamazepine can cause birth defects. Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. It’s excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding while taking this medication requires careful consideration and medical advice.

Interaction

• May interact with various medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements
• Can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
• May affect the metabolism of other anticonvulsants and psychiatric medications
• Grapefruit juice can increase carbamazepine levels in the blood

Important Information

Take Tegretol CR 200mg Divitabs at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Inform all healthcare providers about your use of this medication, especially before any surgical procedures. Avoid activities requiring mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential for monitoring treatment efficacy and managing potential side effects. The controlled-release formulation helps reduce the risk of side effects by maintaining steady blood levels of the medication.