Side Effects of Tegretol

Side Effects of Tegretol
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Tegretol is the brand name for the generic drug carbamazepine. This medication is a type of anticonvulsant indicated to alleviate symptoms associated with epilepsy, a seizure disorder, and facial nerve pain. Tegretol is administered orally and should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Patients should be aware of the side effects of Tegretol before beginning treatment with this medication.

Stomach Upset

Patients taking Tegretol can develop stomach upset side effects following treatment. Typically, stomach related side effects can include heartburn, nausea or vomiting, explains MedlinePlus. Certain patients can also develop bowel movement changes, such as diarrhea or constipation, while receiving treatment with Tegretol. Additionally, dry mouth side effects, such as increased thirst or sore throat, can arise in patients taking this medication. These side effects of treatment can lead to a temporary decrease in appetite in certain people. Eating a small snack before taking a dose of Tegretol can help prevent severe stomach upset side effects in patients.

Drowsiness or Headache

Increased drowsiness or fatigue can occur in patients taking Tegretol, explains RxList. Affected patients may sleep for longer periods of time than normal or may require naps throughout the day to remain energized. Additionally, certain people can develop recurrent headaches as a side effect of Tegretol. Headache pain can be mild to severe and typically subsides with continued use of this medication.

Mood or Cognitive Changes

Patients can experience unusual mood or cognitive changes as side effects of Tegretol. Affected patients can appear abnormally anxious, or may have difficulty remembering certain information, warns MedlinePlus. If a treated patient appears confused, distracted or detached from reality, he should be seen by a medical professional immediately.

Dizziness or Unsteadiness

Treatment with Tegretol can cause sensations of dizziness in affected patients. Episodes of dizziness may cause patients to appear unstable or unsteady while standing or walking. Patients who become dizzy should remain seated until this sensation passes in order to prevent further injury from tripping or falling down. Patients who experience blurred or altered vision in conjunction with dizziness side effects should receive prompt medical attention from a doctor, advises Drugs.com.

Muscle or Body Pain

Muscle or body pain can occur as a side effect of Tegretol in certain patients. Affected patients can develop mild to moderate pain within their back or chest, explains MedlinePlus. Chest pain side effects can indicate a severe reaction to this medication and should be promptly reported to a medical professional. Muscle or body pain can exacerbate fatigue side effects and can make it uncomfortable or problematic for affected patients to move about normally.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Jul 18, 2010

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