Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is carbamazepine ER. 'ER' means it is an 'extended release' tablet. You must swallow it whole, and never crush or chew it.

This medicine helps treat certain types of seizures and nerve pain. It may have other uses, too. 
This medicine is given once every 12 hours. You should take it exactly as your doctor tells you to. You should take each dose with food.

Most people tolerate this medicine well. At first, some people feel tired or dizzy, and may have problems with balance or coordination. You should wait until you know how it affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. Some people have nausea. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these effects or others become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But, do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.  

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects can occur. You should read the Medication Guide to know what to watch for. In general, you should pay close attention to your mood, feelings and body. If you notice any unusual changes, call your doctor right away. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will order blood tests. 

Drug interactions can occur. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines or herbal remedies. Also, check with your doctor before you drink alcohol, eat grapefruit, or drink grapefruit juice.

Women must talk to their doctors about which birth control to use, and before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding.

For best results with this medicine, do not miss doses, and plan ahead for refills.