Rashes that may be very serious are more likely to occur in persons with a particular gene called “HLA-B*1502”. This gene occurs almost exclusively in patients with ancestry across broad areas of Asia, including South Asian Indians. Patients with ancestry from these areas should have a blood test by their physician to see if they have the “HLA-B*1502” gene before starting treatment.

People with absence seizures or myoclonic seizures do not benefit from carbamazepine and may even have more seizures or worse seizures if they take it. They should not use it. So if a person starts having more seizures when they begin taking carbamazepine, they should consult their doctor. The doctor should confirm their seizure type and obtain an EEG if necessary to make sure that the diagnosis is correct.

People with liver disease and those who must take certain other types of medicines may need to be more cautious than others about taking carbamazepine. Most of them can take it successfully, however, if they work with the doctor to determine the correct amount to take. This is why it's important to tell the doctor about all other medicines, vitamins, herbs, and other remedies being used.

Last Revised: 12/14/07