Carbamazepine

Abstract

Carbamazepine was approved 5 years ago by the FDA for treatment of pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia and glossopharyngeal neuralgia. It is now the principal drug for treatment of these conditions. Studies have shown that it is also effective in the treatment of the lightning pains associated with tabes dorsalis; however, it was not approved by the FDA for this condition. Carbamazepine is used most of the world outside the United States as an anticonvulsant. Currently, controlled studies in the United States are under way to determine its efficacy in treating seizure disorders. Because carbamazepine has many side reactions, completely listed in the package insert, patients receiving this drug must be followed closely.