What is Epitol and for what Epitol is used?
Epitol is an "extended-release" form of carbamazepine, which means that the medicine is released into the body slowly instead of all at once. Epitol is used to aid in the treatment of epilepsy. TEGRETOL is another name for it.
Epitol is used to treat seizures and nerve pain such as trigeminal neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy. Epitol medications is not for common aches and pains.
How to Take Epitol
Take Epitol exactly as prescribed by health care provider. Epitol is available in CAPSULE form. Take this medicine after food. Do not stop Epitol medication without the advice of your doctor; doing so may result in an increase in seizures. The Tegretol, Tegretol XR, and Epitol brands of Epitol should be taken with food. The Epitol brand of Epitol may be taken with or without food.
What are the Side Effects of Epitol -
Like other medicines, Epitol can cause side effects. Some of the more common side effects of Epitol include
* mouth ulcers
* pain or difficulty passing urine
* redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
* ringing in the ears
* seizures (convulsions)
* shortness of breath, wheezing
* skin rash, hives, itching
* sore throat
* Sleepiness/drowsiness
* Coordination difficulties
* Rash or other allergic reaction (swollen glands, fever, sore throat).
* Weakness of the bones (osteopenia)
* stomach pain
* swollen joints or muscle/joint aches and pains
* unusual bleeding or bruising
* unusual swelling
* vomiting
Some other side effects of Epitol are as:
* Liver problems
* Blood problems
* Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Epitol intraction with other drugs:
Epitol is metabolized in the liver and interacts with several other epilepsy drugs and other medications, such as warfarin, theophyline, and doxycycline. It may reduce the effectiveness of other antiepileptic drugs which are also processed through the liver and with the effectiveness of birth control pills at standard doses. Tell your doctor if you are taking other drugs.
Warnings and precautions before taking Epitol :
* If you are taking carbamazepine for epilepsy (seizures) do not stop taking it suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace. Carry an identification card with information about your condition, medications, and prescriber or health care professional.
* Epitol capsule must not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harmful side effects to the unborn child. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
* Talk with your physician or pharmacist if you are taking other medications along with Epitol.
* Breast Feeding - Mothers who are taking Epitol and who wish to breast-feed should discuss this with their doctor.
* Do not drink alcohol while taking Epitol. Alcohol may increase drowsiness caused by Epitol. It may also increase the risk of seizures.
* The safety and efficay of this medicine have not been studied in children and adolescents, hence it is not recommended for use in these age groups.
What if Overdose of Epitol ?
If you think you or anyone else taken overdose of Epitol, immediately telephone your doctor or contact your local or regional Poisons Information Centre Seek medical attention immediately. You may need urgent medical attention.
What if Missed Dose of Epitol?
If you miss a dose of Epitol medicine and you remember within an hour or so, take the dose immediately. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage Conditions for Epitol:
Store Epitol capsules at room temperature (below 77°F) and protect them from light and moisture. Keep the medication away from the children.
By: ashu