The effects of carbamazepine poisoning are very unpleasant, but large overdoses are required. Please keep in mind that the following comments do not represent a scientifically adequate cross-section of patients, and the quotes chosen may reflect the bias of the author. I take the pills because even when the pain is mild and could be easily handled there is the fear that a big one can come because it has . Present dosage is 1200 mg per day. If I forget to take it or am late, the left side of my face reminds me that medication is due.
Generic products seem to lack efficacy.
I am presently trying timed release pills with questionable results. I keep a bottle of fresh 200 mg regular pills handy to deal with pain break through. A regular fresh 200mg pill will block pain in 30 minutes from ingestion. Two 200mg pills will block pain in 20 minutes. Old pills don't work.