Tegretol XR (Carbamazepine) is used to prevent seizures, and to relieve certain types of nerve pain such as trigeminal neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy. This medication is also used to treat bipolar disorder. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-epileptic drugs. It works by reducing the spread of seizure activity in the brain and restoring the normal balance of nerve activity. It may take up to 4 weeks before your symptoms improve.

Manufacturer Information

We currently offer the brand Tegretol XR also called Tegretol CR from Canada by Novartis. The generic Carbamazepine Extended Release also comes from Canada manufactured by a different manufacturer.

Seek emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to this medication.

The common side effects of Tegretol XR may include dizziness, drowsiness, loss of coordination, nausea, problems with walking, and vomiting.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects:
• A skin rash;
• Anemia or other blood problems;
• Dark urine, right-sided upper stomach pain;
• Loss of appetite;
• Low levels of sodium in the body;
• Pounding heartbeats, slow or fast

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.

Do not take Tegretol XR if you are allergic to Carbamazepine or to an antidepressant or if you have a history of bone marrow suppression. You should not use Tegretol XR if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. Tegretol XR may cause a severe or life threatening skin rash especially in people of Asian ancestry.

Prior to taking this medication, tell your doctors about your medical history and if you have ever had:
• Depression or mood disorder;
• Glaucoma;
• Heart problems;
• Liver or kidney disease;
• Porphyria;
• Suicidal thoughts or actions

Drinking alcohol with this medication can cause side effects. Tegretol XR may cause blurred vision, or make you dizzy or may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medication will affect you. Avoid the use of grapefruit products; grapefruit may interact with Tegretol XR and cause unwanted side effects. Tegretol XR could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher when you are outdoors. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, nonprescription, herbal products, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Tegretol XR and other medications. Do not start or stop taking this medication during pregnancy without your doctor's advice. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant. Your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of Carbamazepine on the baby. This medication can make birth control pills or implants less effective. Use a barrier form of birth control to prevent pregnancy. Do not breastfeed while you are using this medication.

Check out our latest Blog Post

How Weather Events and Climate Change Are Affecting Mental Health