Carbamazepine is a prescription medication that can be used in conjunction with alternate medications to treat trigeminal neuralgia, an inflammatory nerve condition that affects the facial nerve, mania, depression and certain forms of seizures. This medication is part of a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. Carbamazepine works by decreasing the amount of unusual electrical signaling within the brain. Patients should discuss carbamazepine side effects with a physician before receiving treatment with this medication.
Drowsiness or Dizziness
Patients taking carbamazepine may experience unusual sensations of drowsiness or dizziness, RxList reports. These sensations may cause patients to appear unsteady, confused or disoriented when standing or walking. Increased tiredness may also affect a patient's ability to remain attentive or alert during daily activities, such as school or work.
Upset Stomach
Carbamazepine may induce upset stomach side effects in treated patients, Drugs.com reports. These stomach discomfort effects may include nausea, vomiting or stomach pain. Certain patients may develop bowel movement changes, such as diarrhea or constipation. If stomach upset symptoms persist or become severe while taking carbamazepine, patients should consult a medical professional.
Muscle or Joint Pain or Cramping
Patients may develop abnormal muscle or joint aches, pains or cramping as side effects of carbamazepine treatment. Muscle or joint discomfort may make it difficult for patients to move about normally without assistance. These side effects may also exacerbate drowsiness or fatigue in certain patients.
Blurred Vision, Tinnitus or Headache
Treatment with this medication may have a negative effect on the central nervous system, which can lead to side effects involving the eyes, ears or brain. Patients may develop an unusual buzzing or ringing sound in one or both ears---a side effect called tinnitus, RxList warns. Ear buzzing or ringing may lead to headache pain or difficulty concentrating in certain patients. Vision changes, such as blurred or double vision, may also develop. Patients who experience any of these symptoms in conjunction with speech problems or visual hallucinations should seek guidance and care from a medical professional.
Severe Allergic Reactions
This medication may elevate a patient's risk of developing severe allergic reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, according to MedlinePlus. Patients of Asian descent are at the highest risk of developing these potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. Side effects associated with these reactions may include fever, blisters or a skin rash. Patients who exhibit these side effects should be taken to an emergency care facility immediately to limit the development of additional medical complications.
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