Most people who take Tegretol-XR and other forms of carbamazepine don't have too much trouble with side effects. That's one of the reasons it’s used so much. The most common complaints (usually not too severe) are:

• dizziness
• sleepiness
• unsteadiness
• upset stomach
• blurred or double vision
• headache

If you notice any of these problems, call the doctor. Sometimes the doctor can help by changing the amount or type of medicine prescribed. No one should stop taking Tegretol-XR or change the amount they take without their doctor's guidance.

Some people who have trouble with side effects after taking other forms of carbamazepine do better with an extended-release form like Tegretol-XR or Carbatrol. With other types of carbamazepine, the level of medicine in the blood may become too high (and cause side effects) within a few hours after taking a dose. Because Tegretol-XR releases the medicine more slowly, the amount in the blood does not become so high after a dose is taken. Instead, it stays fairly even throughout the day.

People who have just started taking Tegretol-XR (or who have just started taking a larger amount) should be careful during activities that might be dangerous, until they know whether they are having any side effects.

Allergic reactions
About 5% to 10% of people who take Tegretol-XR or other forms of carbamazepine have a red rash within in the first month of taking it. If this happens, tell the doctor or nurse, to be sure that it's not the beginning of a serious problem.