Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking Carbatrol as follows:
- Carbatrol carries significant risk of bone marrow suppression and result in compromised production of blood cells from the bone marrow. This can lead to anemia and agranulocytosis. Individuals can present with dizziness, fatigue, weakness, pallor, increased shortness of breath with reduced exercise tolerance, and a rapid heartbeat, secondary to low red blood cell count. Reduced white blood cell count can contribute to lowered immunity, thus resulting in frequent fever, chills, sore throat, and risk for frequent infections. Compromised platelet production with Carbatrol, secondary to bone marrow suppression, can lead to reduced clotting ability of blood. This can result in easy bruising and individuals can present with purple patches on the skin due to episodes of uncontrolled bleeding into the skin. Report any such findings to your physician immediately, so that, an alternative plan of care could be considered.
- Carbatrol use can result in swelling and bleeding of the gums. Observing compliance with your dental visits and massaging of gums along with regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent and manage this side-effect of Carbatrol intake.
- Carbatrol can take some time to fairly adjust to your body, before preventing seizure episodes and providing relief with neuropathy. Do not discontinue taking the medication without your physician’s consult, as you failed to see the desired result immediately after taking the medication.
