Mazetol Sr 300 Tablet

MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET by ABBOTT: Product Description

MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET, manufactured by Abbott, is a sustained-release anticonvulsant medication primarily used for the management of various neurological conditions. Its prolonged action ensures consistent therapeutic levels in the body.

• Name

  • Brand Name: MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET
  • Common Name: Carbamazepine (active ingredient)

• Composition

  • Each MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET contains 300 mg of Carbamazepine.

• Uses MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET is prescribed for:

  • Epilepsy/Seizures: It helps manage and control various types of seizures, including partial, tonic-clonic, and mixed seizure patterns, by stabilizing nerve membranes and reducing excessive electrical activity in the brain.
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia: It alleviates the intense pain associated with this chronic condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face.
  • Diabetic Nerve Pain (Diabetic Neuropathy): It provides relief from nerve pain caused by diabetes.
  • Bipolar Disorder: It can be used for mood stabilization, particularly when other medications are not effective in controlling episodes of mania and depression.
  • Note: It is not intended for regular aches or pains.

• Dosage and Administration

  • Take MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it, as this can affect its sustained-release mechanism.
  • It can be taken with or without food, but maintaining consistency by taking it at the same time each day is crucial for optimal effectiveness.
  • The dosage may be gradually increased by your doctor based on individual response and condition severity.
  • Do not stop taking this medication abruptly, as it can worsen your condition or trigger seizures.
  • MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET is generally not recommended for children under 5 years of age.

• Side Effects

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness, unsteadiness (ataxia), constipation, dry mouth, itching, blurred vision, slurred speech, headache, weight gain, and minor skin reactions.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced): Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis), significant mood changes (depression, suicidal thoughts), sudden skin rash, reddish spots, circular patches, yellowing of skin or eyes, and excessive sleepiness in infants (if breastfeeding).

• Precautions

  • Pregnancy: MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of congenital malformations; use non-hormonal contraception if you are of childbearing potential.
  • Breastfeeding: Exercise caution; Carbamazepine can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor if your baby experiences unusual sleepiness, skin reactions, or jaundice.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase dizziness and drowsiness.
  • Driving & Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you.
  • Medical History: Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions such as heart problems (especially cardiac conduction disorders), liver or kidney disease, bone marrow depression, glaucoma, difficulty urinating, depression, or suicidal tendencies.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as many can interact with Carbamazepine, including hormonal contraceptives (which may become less effective), certain antidepressants, anticoagulants, and antifungals.
  • Food Interactions: Avoid consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can increase the levels of Carbamazepine in your blood, leading to enhanced side effects.
  • Monitoring: Regular blood tests (e.g., to monitor blood cell counts and liver function) may be necessary during treatment.

• Storage

  • Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C.
  • Protect from direct sunlight, light, and moisture.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Here are frequently asked questions about MAZETOL SR 300 TABLET:

What is MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet used for?

MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet, containing carbamazepine, is primarily used to manage epilepsy and control various types of seizures, including generalized tonic-clonic and partial seizures. It is also prescribed to relieve the intense pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia (a condition causing severe facial pain), and sometimes for diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain related to diabetes). Additionally, it may be used for mood stabilization in bipolar disorder under specialist supervision.

How does MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet work?

MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet works by stabilizing hyperexcited nerve membranes in the brain. It prevents the excessive and repetitive firing of nerve cells that cause seizures by decreasing abnormal electrical activity. It also helps to reduce nerve pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals across the nervous system.

What is the usual dosage for MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet?

The dosage of MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition, body weight, and response to treatment. For adults, the initial dose typically ranges from 200 to 400 milligrams per day, divided into multiple doses, and may be gradually increased. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food, and taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

What are the possible side effects of MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet?

Common side effects can include dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, unsteadiness (ataxia), nausea, vomiting, headache, constipation, dry mouth, itching, and weight gain. Some individuals may also experience changes in liver enzymes or a low white blood cell count. More serious side effects, though rare, include severe skin reactions (like skin rashes, blistering, or peeling), mood changes (depression, suicidal thoughts), unusual bruising or bleeding, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and frequent infections. You should report any concerning or persistent side effects to your doctor immediately.

Is MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet is generally advised against during pregnancy as it may increase the risk of developmental disorders and malformations in the infant, such as spina bifida, cleft lip/palate, and cardiovascular defects. It should only be used if deemed absolutely necessary by your doctor, who will weigh the benefits against the risks. Women of childbearing potential should use effective non-hormonal contraception while taking this medicine.

Breastfeeding: The active ingredient, carbamazepine, can pass into breast milk. Caution is advised, and you should consult your doctor before breastfeeding. The infant should be monitored for side effects such as excessive sleepiness, skin reactions, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Can MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet be taken with other medications?

MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet can interact with many other medications, which can affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. It may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, anticoagulants (like warfarin), and certain antidepressants. Conversely, some medicines (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin, grapefruit juice) can increase the levels of carbamazepine in your blood, potentially leading to toxicity. Always inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take to avoid possible interactions.

What precautions should be taken while on MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet?

Do not stop taking MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet suddenly, as this can worsen your condition and increase the risk of seizures or withdrawal symptoms. Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Exercise caution when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Inform your doctor if you have a history of bone marrow depression, liver or kidney disease, heart problems (e.g., AV block), thyroid disorders, glaucoma, low sodium levels, or mental health conditions like depression or suicidal thoughts. Regular blood tests may be required to monitor your blood cell count and liver function.

What happens if a dose of MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet be stored?

Store MAZETOL SR 300 Tablet in a cool, dry place, typically below 30°C, away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Protect the tablets from light and moisture.