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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Question Title: Tegretol monitoringForum: Neurology Forum
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Re: Tegretol monitoringPosted by CCF MD on September 21, 1997 at 19:43:21: In Reply to: Tegretol monitoring posted by Regina Barnum on September 21, 1997 at 12:17:07:
All that I've read instructs that Tegretol be monitored weekly the first month, then twice a month, and monthly during its use. A baseline must also be taken, and the monitoring continued if the dosage is changed. I've started on Tegretol for trigeminal neuralgia and have done some research on the drug since I know it can have side effects. After 15 days on Tegretol I asked for a blood test. It turned out to be for Tegretol levels (4.2). Eight days later I had a CBC and platlet level which came back normal. Should I be more closely monitored and should I be concerned?
You need to speak with the doctor who has written for any medication you are taking and ask then about medication monitoring. Physicians may vary in terms of how they follow drug levels or other blood work. It is most important that you and you doctor "talk" to each other about heath care questions. The tegretol level of 4.2 is in the low range but we usually do not follow levels when the medication is given for trigeminal neuralgia unless the patient is having side effects or compliance is an issue. The normal CBC and platlets are good but you will need to speak with your doctor regarding future monitoring. So far everything sounds okay. Please consult your doctor regarding these questions.
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