A to Z of MS Carbamazepine
Product name
Tegretol
Carbamazepine is an anti-epilepsy drug that is used in MS to treat pain associated with spasticity, spasms, trigeminal neuralgia and some other pain symptoms.
How carbamazepine works
Carbamazepine is an anti-convulsant drug that reduces or blocks some messages from the brain to the rest of the body.
How carbamazepine is given
Carbamazepine is taken orally as tablets. Dosages vary and may be given once or several times a day. Normally people start on a low dose which is gradually increased.
Side effects and contra indications
Side effects include nausea, dizziness, sedation, weakness, liver disorders and constipation. Many of these side effects ease off over time. Carbamazepine can stop some types of oral contraceptive pill from working, so this should be taken into account. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should seek advice from a doctor.