Tegretol

• Other side effects may include:
  Allergic reactions, blood pressure changes, bone marrow suppression, hives, rash, sensitivity to light, swelling

Why should Tegretol not be prescribed?

You should not use Tegretol if you have a history of bone marrow depression (reduced function), a sensitivity to Tegretol, or a sensitivity to tricyclic antidepressant drugs such as amitriptyline (Elavil). You should also not be taking Tegretol if you are on an MAO inhibitor antidepressant such as Nardil or Parnate, or if you have taken such a drug within the past 14 days.

Tegretol is not a simple pain reliever and should not be used for the relief of minor aches and pains.

Special warnings about Tegretol

If you have a history of heart, liver, or kidney damage, an adverse blood reaction to any drug, glaucoma, or serious reactions to other drugs, you should discuss this history thoroughly with your doctor before taking this medication.

Anticonvulsant drugs such as Tegretol should not be stopped abruptly if you are taking the medication to prevent major seizures. There exists the strong possibility of continuous epileptic attacks without return to consciousness, leading to possible severe brain damage and death. Only your doctor should determine if and when you should stop taking this medication.

Since dizziness and drowsiness may occur while taking Tegretol, you should refrain from operating machinery or driving an automobile or participating in any high-risk activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you.

Older adults, especially, can become confused or agitated when taking Tegretol.

Tegretol has been known to cause serious blood, liver, and skin reactions, both early in treatment and after extended use. Alert your doctor immediately if you develop such warning signs as fever, sore throat, rash, ulcers in the mouth, easy bruising or spots in the skin, swollen lymph glands, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, or yellowing of the skin and eyes.

The coating of the Tegretol-XR tablet is not absorbed and passes through your body intact. If you notice it in your stool, it is not a cause for alarm.