Carbamazepine information sheet

• Carbamazepine must be prescribed by a doctor. You should never give your child anyone else's medications.
• Carbamazepine is started slowly and then increased gradually until the right dose is achieved. 
• Your doctor may do blood tests before your child starts the medication and may do blood tests occasionally to check the medication level in the blood. 
• Discuss with your doctor the timing of the dosage in relation to the time of the blood test. 
• Sometimes the doctor will change the dosage according to the medication level in the blood.

• If your child vomits within 30 minutes after having their dose, then repeat the dose.
• If it is longer than 30 minutes since having the dose you do not need to repeat the dose, but if vomiting or diarrhoea continues, seek medical help.

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered.
• The next due dose should be taken at the usual time.
• However, if the missed dose is remembered in close proximity to the next due dose (i.e. within 3 to 4 hours of the next dose), please seek medical advice.
• Contact your treating GP, epilepsy nurse, paediatrician or neurologist if you are unsure about what to do.

• Always read the label. Follow the instructions of your doctor and pharmacist.
• Keep out of reach of children.

See more about how to store different brands of Carbamazepine.

All medications have side effects. Not everyone will experience side effects. Below are some of the possible side effects your child may experience: 

Rash 

This is the most important side effect to watch for. Rashes can occur anytime but usually within the first 4-6 weeks. 

There are important features to look for such as:

• Red eyes
• Red mouth
• Blisters around the mouth, nose and lips. 

If your child develops a rash or any of these symptoms please call your doctor immediately. The drug needs to be stopped immediately under medical supervision. 

Please let your doctor know if you have Han Chinese, Filipino, Malaysian, Thai or South Asian background. There are increased chances of getting this rash for children from these backgrounds. 

A blood test can be done to determine potential risk. 

Other possible side-effects 

The below adverse effects may occur early and are often dose related. Speak to your doctor as dose adjustments may abolish the side effect. 

• Tummy pain
• Nausea
• Unsteadiness
• Drowsiness
• Blurred vision
• Irritability
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Headaches
• Weight gain/ loss, loss of appetite
• Changes in behaviour
• Abnormal blood test 

There are some drugs that are not compatible with Carbamazepine, particularly an antibiotic called Erythromycin, so always tell your doctor that your child is taking Carbamazepine. 

This is also important if you are giving your child herbal or complementary medicines. The doctor can check to make sure they are compatible. 

Seizure exacerbation 

• Carbamazepine can make some seizures worse (absence seizures and myoclonic seizures).
• If your child's seizures are becoming worse please contact your doctor. 

Pregnancy and contraception 

• The oral contraceptive pill may not work properly in women or girls who are taking Carbamazepine.
• For further information, refer to the reproductive health section. 

The information provided in this handout is limited and does not replace the need for a medical consultation. It is very important you speak to your doctor about all aspects of your medication including side effects when medication is first prescribed. Report any concerns to your doctor promptly.