High risk drugs

Question 1

What is the main indication for Carbamazepine?

Answer 1

Epilepsy

Question 2

What are the other indications for Carbamazepine?

Answer 2

Trigeminal neuralgia
Bipolar if unresponsive to lithium
Diabetic neuropathy
Alcohol withdrawal

Question 3

What is the therapeutic levels for Carbamazepine?

Answer 3

4-12 mg/L

Question 4

What are signs of carbamazepine toxicity?

Answer 4

Blood (sore throat, rash etc)
Hepatic (abdo pain, dark urine, jaundice)
Skin

Question 5

When should carbamazepine levels be taken?

Answer 5

1-2 weeks after dose

Question 6

What are the side effects of carbamazepine?

Answer 6

Hyponatraemia
Ataxia
Nystagmus
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Arrhythmias
GI disturbances

Question 7

If someone was taking carbamazepine for bipolar, how long should they withdraw the tablets over?

Answer 7

4 weeks
Slower for epilepsy

Question 8

What is the interaction between DOAC’s and Carbamazepine?

Answer 8

Carbamazepine will reduce efficacy by 50%