Carbamazepine, plasma or serum

Carbamazepine is an iminostilbine derivative and is structurally related to the tricyclic antidepressants. Serum (plasma) concentrations between 17 to 50 umol/L have been associated with optimal seizure control in adults. Toxicity associated with carbamazepine therapy is generally minor. The most serious problem is with carbamazepine's ability to suppress bone marrow function. This serious toxic effect, potentially leading to aplastic anemia, is rare. More frequently encountered side effects such as mild drowsiness, vision disturbances, nausea and headache are dose-related and not generally life threatening. Carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide is the major active metabolite of carbamazepine.