CARBAMAZEPINE

Question 1

What is the common indication for Carbamazepine?
Answer: Carbamazepine is commonly used to treat epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and bipolar disorder.

Question 2

What is the normal maintenance dose for Carbamazepine?
Answer: The normal maintenance dose for Carbamazepine varies depending on the patient’s individual factors, but typically ranges from 400 to 1200 mg per day.

Question 3

What is the drug class of Carbamazepine?
Answer: Carbamazepine belongs to the class of drugs known as anticonvulsants.

Question 4

What are the possible optimization issues when taking Carbamazepine?
Answer: Possible optimization issues with Carbamazepine include the risk of adverse effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Dose adjustments may also be necessary based on individual patient factors such as age, weight, and liver function.

Question 5

What should pharmacists lookout for when patients take Carbamazepine?
Answer: Pharmacists should monitor patients for signs of adverse reactions such as rash, fever, and difficulty breathing. They should also be aware of potential drug interactions and counsel patients on the importance of adhering to the dosing schedule.

Question 6

What is the normal initial dose for Carbamazepine?
Answer: The normal initial dose for Carbamazepine varies depending on the patient’s individual factors, but typically ranges from 200 to 400 mg per day. The dose may be increased gradually over several weeks to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

Question 7

What’s the MHRA/CHM advise for those on Carbamezepine?

Answer 7

Risk of suicidal thoughts
Antiepileptics should be prescribed by brand
MHRA advised to contact sidereal Vitamin D supplements in patient who are immobilised for long periods or have inadequate sun exposure or dietary intake of calcium

Question 8

State the common side effects of Carbamezepine

Answer 8

Dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, vomiting, Oedema

Question 9

Uncommon side effects of Carbamezepine

Answer 9

Constipation, diarrhoea, eye disorder, tic and tremor

Question 10

Monitoring requirements

Answer 10

TDM- plasma concentration for optimum response 4-12mg/l
Blood counts and hepatic and RF test

Question 11

Treatment cessation for bipolar disorder

Answer 11

Reduce the dose gradually over 4weeks

Question 12

What’s the dose of Carbamezepine for focal a x generalised tonic clonic seizures

Answer 12

Initially 100-200mg 1-2 times a day
Increase in steps of 100-200mg/2weeks
Usual dose 0.8-1.2g in daily divided doses