英文药名: Equetro(Extended Release Carbamazepine Capsules)

中文药名: 卡马西平控释胶囊

生产厂家: Shire

药品简介

美国FDA批准希雷制药（Shire Pharmaceuticals）公司的卡马西平（carbamazepine）控释胶囊(Equetro，先前称为SPD417)上市，用于治疗兼有躁狂和抑郁发作的双相情感障碍。
据世界卫生组织报道，双相情感障碍是全世界六大精神疾病之一。据估计，美国每年患此病达200万例，约占18岁及以上人口的1%。目前美国的双相情感障碍治疗药的市场规模为19亿美元，预测2007年可增至24亿美元。
Equetro可显著减轻双相情感障碍患者的躁狂症状。此外，在临床研究中本品治疗组患者未显示体重有明显增加，血糖浓度也不升高，因而病人的耐受性好。本品含有独特的3种不同释药速率小珠的控释系统，服药方便。

有3种剂量规格：100，200和300mg/粒，是唯一有效治疗双相情感障碍患者的卡马西平制剂。
规格：200mg *120 控释胶囊 

Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine) has received FDA approval for the treatment of acute manic and mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine Capsules) has been shown to significantly reduce manic symptoms in bipolar patients with manic and mixed episodes.
Bipolar Disorder is characterized by episodes of mania and depression, with periods of normal mood in between. The disorder can have devastating effects on an individual's life, although proper diagnosis and early treatment can usually alter the course of the illness.
The most frequently reported side effects with Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine) were dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, nausea and vomiting.
Initiating therapy at the lowest possible effective dose can minimize adverse events that are associated with taking Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine). Reports of transient or persistent decreased platelet or white blood cell count are not uncommon in association with the use of Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine).
Although the vast majority of cases of leukopenia have not progressed to the more serious conditions of aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis, complete pretreatment hematological testing should be obtained as a baseline. Patients should be monitored and discontinuation of Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine Capsules) should be considered if any evidence of bone marrow depression occurs. Because the possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in bipolar disorder, close supervision of high-risk patients should accompany drug therapy.
Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine Capsules) was approved by the Food & Drug Administration in December 2004 for the treatment of acute manic and mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Equetro (Extended Release Carbamazepine) is available in 100 milligram (mg), 200 mg and 300 mg dosage strengths.
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Generic name: Carbamazepine
Why is Equetro prescribed?
Equetro is used to treat acute manic and mixed episodes of Bipolar I Disorder.
A manic episode is a time of abnormally elevated, unreserved, or irritable mood. A mixed episode is a manic episode with a major depressive episode (depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities).
Most important fact about Equetro
Do not begin treatment with Equetro if you are already being treated with a drug containing carbamazepine. If stopped abruptly, Equetro may cause a seizure in epileptic people.
Carbamazepine may cause severe harm during pregnancyHow should you take Equetro?
Equetro capsules may be swallowed whole, or opened and sprinkled over food such as applesauce. Capsules may be taken with or without food. Do not crush or chew the capsules.
If you miss a dose.
If a dose is missed, just continue on your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature, away from light.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.
Side effects may include:
Blurred vision, dizziness, dry mouth, itchiness, muscle problems, nausea, speech problems, vomiting
Why should Equetro not be prescribed?
Do not use Equetro if you have had problems with your bone marrow, or if you are allergic to any ingredients.
Special warnings about Equetro
Avoid potentially harmful activities, such as driving and operating machinery, until you see how Equetro affects you, as this drug may cause dizziness and blurred vision.
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Equetro. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver problems, a seizure disorder, or previous problems with your blood.
Recommended dosage for Equetro
ADULTS
The usual dosage of Equetro is 400 milligrams (mg) per day. The dosage may be adjusted by 200-mg increments. The maximum dosage of this drug is 1600 mg per day.
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.