Zeptol
Generic Name
Carbamazepine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zeptol 200 mg tablet | ৳ 5.52 | ৳ 55.20 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zeptol is a brand name for Carbamazepine, an anticonvulsant medication used to treat epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and bipolar disorder. It helps to stabilize electrical activity in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial 100-200 mg orally twice daily, gradually increasing up to 800-1200 mg/day in divided doses.
Elderly
Start with lower doses (e.g., 100 mg twice daily) and titrate slowly due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment recommended, but use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
How to Take
Take with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Maintain consistent timing for doses each day.
Mechanism of Action
Carbamazepine stabilizes hyperexcited nerve membranes, inhibits repetitive neuronal discharge, and reduces synaptic propagation of excitatory impulses. Its primary mechanism is thought to involve blocking voltage-gated sodium channels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Variable; therapeutic effects for epilepsy may take several days.
Excretion
Mainly renal (70% as metabolites), with a small amount excreted in feces.
Half life
Initial half-life is 25-65 hours, decreasing to 12-17 hours with chronic administration due to autoinduction of metabolism.
Absorption
Slow and erratic absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations occur 4-24 hours after an oral dose.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP3A4, to an active metabolite (carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide). Undergoes autoinduction.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of bone marrow depression
- Hypersensitivity to carbamazepine or tricyclic antidepressants
- Concomitant use with MAO inhibitors
- Porphyria
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May decrease anticoagulant effect.
Grapefruit Juice
Increases carbamazepine levels.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce contraceptive efficacy, leading to unplanned pregnancies.
Other CNS depressants
Increased sedation.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include dizziness, ataxia, drowsiness, blurred vision, nystagmus, nausea, vomiting, coma, respiratory depression, and seizures. Treatment is supportive, including gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and monitoring vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Known to cause birth defects (e.g., neural tube defects). Benefits may outweigh risks in severe conditions. Excreted in breast milk; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding with monitoring, but caution is advised.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of bone marrow depression
- Hypersensitivity to carbamazepine or tricyclic antidepressants
- Concomitant use with MAO inhibitors
- Porphyria
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May decrease anticoagulant effect.
Grapefruit Juice
Increases carbamazepine levels.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce contraceptive efficacy, leading to unplanned pregnancies.
Other CNS depressants
Increased sedation.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include dizziness, ataxia, drowsiness, blurred vision, nystagmus, nausea, vomiting, coma, respiratory depression, and seizures. Treatment is supportive, including gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and monitoring vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Known to cause birth defects (e.g., neural tube defects). Benefits may outweigh risks in severe conditions. Excreted in breast milk; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding with monitoring, but caution is advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA/FDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied for its efficacy in epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and bipolar disorder, with numerous clinical trials supporting its use.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Serum Sodium levels
- Carbamazepine plasma levels (therapeutic drug monitoring)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the risks of serious dermatologic reactions, especially those of Asian descent who should be screened for HLA-B*1502.
- Monitor CBC, LFTs, and serum sodium levels regularly.
- Warn about potential drug interactions, especially with hormonal contraceptives and warfarin.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, as it may lead to increased seizure frequency.
- Report any skin rash, fever, sore throat, or unusual bruising/bleeding immediately.
- Regular blood tests will be required during treatment.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Carbamazepine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, especially at the start of treatment. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication.
- Use sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to sunlight due to potential photosensitivity.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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