Adverse reactions to carbamazepine (tegretol).

A review of the literature on adverse reactions to carbamazepine used in treatment of paroxysmal trigeminal neuralgia is presented and a survey of 120 cases is reported. The case reports were selected to emphasise some of the adverse reactions to carbamazepine. The blood picture was monitored every month while patients were on carbamazepine therapy. As with any medication, side-effects and complications may occur. When a patient shows a minor intolerance to the drug, the dose should be reduced to the one that controls the symptoms incompletely but produces no adverse effects. As the patient acquires greater tolerance the dosage may be gradually increased. Periodic monitoring of the blood picture and of liver and kidney function is important.