Take carbamazepine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open a carbamazepine extended-release tablet or capsule. Swallow the pill whole. Breaking the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
You may open the extended-release capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of pudding or applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure the liquid with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.
It may take up to 4 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using carbamazepine as directed and call your doctor promptly if this medicine seems to stop working as well in preventing your seizures.
While using carbamazepine, you may need frequent blood tests at your doctor's office.
Do not stop using carbamazepine without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel fine. You may have increased seizures or unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if you stop using carbamazepine suddenly.
Store carbamazepine at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.