How does carbamazepine work as a mood stabilizer?

How does carbamazepine work as a mood stabilizer?

Answer: Carbamazepine is an anti-seizure medication also known as a mood stabilizer. It’s effective to reduce the mania and sometimes the depression of bipolar disorder. It works by reducing the excitability of nerve cells in that part of the brain that’s responsible for mood and motivation.

Does carbamazepine make you calm?

It can also help with periods of low mood. Carbamazepine is usually only prescribed after you have already tried other mood stabilisers such as lithium, olanzapine and valproate. Carbamazepine can help to calm down the brain.

What does carbamazepine feel like?

Common side effects of carbamazepine include feeling sleepy, dizziness, headaches and feeling or being sick. These are usually mild and go away by themselves. It usually takes a couple of weeks for carbamazepine to work. When taking carbamazepine for epilepsy, it’s best to stick to the same brand.

How long does it take for carbamazepine to kick in?

It can take 1 to 2 weeks for carbamazepine to work properly. If you have epilepsy or bipolar disorder, it’s likely that once your condition is under control you will still need to take carbamazepine for several years.

What should I avoid while taking carbamazepine?

You should preferably avoid the regular consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice while taking carBAMazepine. This can cause carBAMazepine levels to increase. You should report signs of carBAMazepine side effects such as nausea, visual disturbances, dizziness, or muscle weakness to your doctor.

Does carbamazepine make you gain weight?

Epilepsy drugs prevent seizures. Some, like carbamazepine and Neurontin (gabapentin), can cause weight gain.

What is the best time to take carbamazepine?

If you take carbamazepine twice a day, try to space your doses evenly through the day. For example, first thing in the morning, and in the evening. You can take it with or without food. Tablets – you can take tablets with or without food.

When is the best time to take carbamazepine?

Carbamazepine should be taken with meals to lessen unwanted effects (eg, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting). Carbamazepine Equetro® extended-release capsules do not need to be taken with meals unless they upset your stomach.