Question: I am a woman who has been on the anticonvulsant drug Carbatrol since I was 9. I am now 56. I am worried my body has suffered from being on this drug for so long. Do you think this is a problem and should I switch to a different drug?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Carbamazepine (Carbatrol) is used to control certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. Along with its needed effects, unwanted effects do occur. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. You seem to have been well-adjusted with a prolonged therapy. However, you must be monitored for serious side effects that include dangerously low red and white blood cell counts, severe skin reactions as well as serious liver abnormalities, such as hepatitis, resulting in jaundice. Low sodium levels and thyroid abnormalities can also occur, so make sure your levels are checked. If you are considering switching to another drug, you doctors’ advice regarding the switch and dosing must be followed closely.