Which is better to use, Gardinal or Carbamezapine for controlling epilepsy?

Question

I heard Carbamezapine has lot of side effects such as Urine Retention, Blurring of Vision, Depressive Moods, Suicidal Tendencies, changes of mood and such other symptoms. All these I have been experiencing, since 2001. Only recently I have come to know that Carbamezapine could cause them. I have got serum levels determined for Carbamezapine and it is less then Therapeutic level. I have taken Gardinal from 1981 till 1999 and changed over to Carbamezapine, (Zen Retard) with 100 mg in the morning and 200 mg in the evening, since 1999. The Depressive moods, Urine Retention and such other symptoms vanish for a period of few hours if I take an Anti Histamine (for controlling allergic sneezes) or if I do 120 sit ups. However symptoms return thereafter.

Answer 1

there are alternatives to the drugs is u r experiencing major side effects to them. the best choice depends upon the response given to the drug varies from person to person. generally phenobarb or gardinal is used for whole body seizures and carbamezepine for partia seizures where consiousness is preserved. newer drugs r available ask u r doc if u have s/e

Answer 2

Pheno barbitone & carbamazepine are equally effective but it all depends on the area of seizures. Your doctor knows best and follow his advice. No drug is free from side effects and the rule is to find the potential benefits than possible hazards!!!

Answer 3

I have been taken this medications 20 some odd years. I have had epilepsy since 6 months old. It has controlled my siezures great. I have been fortunate enough NOT to have any sypmtoms. If you HAVENT DEVELOPED THERAPEUTIC LVLS YET ITS NOT MEDICATIONS FAULT. YOUR DR. NEEDS TO INCREASE IT.

Answer 4

Carbamezepine. is better. The dose should be increased. Phenobarb. also has side effects.