Darvocet and Tegretol

In the database of official manuals used in the service creation an interaction registered by statistical results of studies was found, which can either lead to negative consequences for the patient health or strengthen a mutual positive effect. A doctor should be consulted to address the issue of joint drug administration.

Using carBAMazepine together with propoxyphene is generally not recommended. Propoxyphene can significantly increase the blood levels and effects of carBAMazepine. You may need a dose adjustment and/or more frequent blood tests to monitor carBAMazepine levels if your doctor does prescribe both medications together. Let your doctor know if you develop headache, dizziness, nausea, slurred speech, vision problems, tremors or incoordination, as these may be symptoms of excessive carBAMazepine levels. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with propoxyphene may significantly increase the plasma concentrations of carbamazepine. The proposed mechanism is propoxyphene inhibition of carbamazepine metabolism via hepatic CYP450 microsomal enzymes. In a study of six patients maintained on carbamazepine monotherapy, serum carbamazepine levels increased by an average of 66% after the initiation of propoxyphene 65 mg three times daily for six days. A further increase was seen in three of the patients after an additional week of propoxyphene. One patient developed clinical signs of carbamazepine toxicity and had to discontinue taking propoxyphene. There have also been case reports of toxicity attributed to the interaction, with increases in serum carbamazepine level by up to nearly 8-fold following initiation of propoxyphene. A few cases have resulted in hospitalization, coma, and even death. Elderly patients may be particularly susceptible. In a group of Swedish elderly patients who were part of a drug-dispensing program, the dosages of carbamazepine and propoxyphene were lower among patients who used the combination compared to those who used only one of the drugs. However, despite the carbamazepine dosage being approximately one-third lower in the combination group, the mean serum carbamazepine level was 25% higher and the incidence of adverse effects was also significantly higher.

MANAGEMENT: Given the availability of alternative analgesics, the use of propoxyphene in combination with carbamazepine should generally be avoided. A dose adjustment of carbamazepine may be required if concomitant use is necessary, and serum carbamazepine levels should be closely monitored. Patients should be advised to seek medical attention if they develop potential signs and symptoms of carbamazepine toxicity such as headache, nausea, dizziness, slurred speech, nystagmus, visual disturbances, tremors, and ataxia.

Darvocet

Generic Name: acetaminophen / propoxyphene

Brand name: Balacet, Darvocet, Propacet 100

Synonyms: Darvocet-N

What is Darvocet?

Tegretol

Generic Name: carbamazepine

Brand name: Carbatrol, Epitol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol XR, Tegretol, Tegretol XR

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Tegretol?