Wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace. Carry an identification card with information about your condition, medications, and doctor. You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how carbamazepine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient.
Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
Avoid alcoholic drinks. If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking carbamazepine. Carbamazepine can make your skin more sensitive to the sun or ultraviolet light. Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Do not rely on contraceptive pills for birth control.