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Tegretol Effects

Tegretol is an anticonvulsant medication that works by lowering nerve impulses that cause seizures and pain in individuals prone to epileptic seizures. The drug has also been used as a treatment method for bipolar disorder, diabetic neuropathy and true trigeminal neuralgia. As with most other medications, there are a series of side effects that are associated with using Tegretol.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • There are a number of common side effects that have been associated with using this medication. Some of these side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, blurred vision, headache, confusion, ringing of the ears, swollen tongue, dry mouth, leg cramps and muscle pain. If symptoms become unbearable, contact your doctor for a revised treatment plan.

    Severe Side Effects

    • Unfortunately, there are also a number of severe side effects that have been reported by some users. These include severe allergic reactions, mood or behavior changes, depression, thoughts of suicide, feelings of hostility, feelings of agitation, sore throat, fever, severe blistering and peeling of the skin, headaches, pale skin, easy bruising and bleeding, sores on the inside of the mouth and lips, urinating less than usual, and swelling of the ankles and feet.

    Important Safety Information

    • Before taking Tegretol, please tell your doctor if you have any allergies and if you have a history of any of the following ailments: previous severe side effects from using medication, liver or kidney disease, porphyria, heart attack, lupus, glaucoma and a history of mental illness. You may also have thoughts of suicide while taking Tegretol, so please consult your doctor if you experience this reaction. Patients of Asian origin have a higher susceptibility of developing a rare skin disorder as a result of using this medication. As a result, a blood test is recommended to avoid this reaction.

    Usage

    • Always take Tegretol exactly as prescribed by your doctor and never in excessive doses. Be sure to swallow the pill whole and do not crush, break or chew the capsules. It may take up to four weeks for symptoms to start improving and for you to start feeling better. However, it is important to understand NOT to discontinue use as soon as symptoms begin to improve, as the entire drug cycle must be completed for treatment to work. Store the drug at room temperature away from heat or moisture for best results.

    Warning

    • If you experience any of the above side effects after using Tegretol, contact your doctor immediately.

      If you believe an overdose has occurred, contact your local poison-control center and head directly to the emergency room.

      Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial tanning booths while using the drug as it makes users more susceptible to sunburn.

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