Tegretol CR 400mg Divitabs (Carbamazepin) x10

Tegretol CR 400mg 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 diabetic neuropathy.

Uses

Tegretol CR 400mg Divitabs is primarily prescribed for:

• Treatment of epilepsy and other seizure disorders
• Management of trigeminal neuralgia (severe facial pain)
• Relief of nerve pain caused by diabetic neuropathy

Benefits

• Reduces the frequency and severity of seizures
• Effectively controls trigeminal neuralgia pain
• Relieves nerve pain associated with diabetic neuropathy
• Controlled-release formulation maintains steady blood levels
• Once-daily dosing improves patient compliance

How It Works

Carbamazepine works by stabilizing overactive nerve membranes and reducing excessive nerve signals in the brain. It modulates sodium channels, thereby decreasing neuronal excitability and preventing the spread of seizure activity. The controlled-release formulation ensures a gradual and sustained release of the medication.

Duration of Action

Tegretol CR 400mg 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

Tegretol CR 400mg Divitabs is typically taken once daily with food. The initial dosage is usually lower and gradually increased based on the individual patient’s needs and response to the medication. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dosing and administration.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dry mouth and blurred vision
• Skin rash and itching

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 400mg Divitabs at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. It should be taken with food. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets as this can affect the controlled-release mechanism. 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.