Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking Carbatrol as follows:
- Carbatrol use can sometimes result in damage to the kidneys and individuals can present with compromised renal function, reduced urine formation, and increased retention of fluid, with edema and weight gain due to fluid retention. Individuals can also present with severe nausea and vomiting and altered levels of consciousness, secondary to reduced excretion in urine and increased accumulation of waste metabolites in the body. Report any such findings to your physician immediately, so that, an appropriate alternative plan of care could be considered.
- Carbatrol is extensively metabolized in the liver and the metabolites are majorly excreted in the urine. If liver function and kidney function are deficient, the metabolism and excretion of Carbatrol can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, Carbatrol could be avoided in individuals with liver and renal dysfunction and an alternative medication considered or used with caution, with periodical dose adjustments, lab draws, and close monitoring for development of any serious side-effects and toxic symptoms.h
- If you miss a dose, try taking it at the earliest notice of noncompliance. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the dose scheduled. Do not take an extra dose to try making up for the missed dose. Notify your doctor and other health care personnel regarding your dose noncompliance.
