Carbamazepine Side Effects

A few common side effects of carbamazepine include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. Some of the less common side effects include hair loss, a dry mouth, and blurred vision. While side effects of this medication are usually minor, certain carbamazepine side effects are more serious and may need immediate medical attention. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience serious side effects, such as unusual bleeding or bruising, hallucinations, or an irregular heart rhythm.

 

An Introduction to Carbamazepine Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate carbamazepine quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with carbamazepine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of carbamazepine side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Carbamazepine

Carbamazepine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to the side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, some of the most common carbamazepine side effects included:
 
  • Unsteadiness
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting.
     
(Carbamazepine Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;