Because it increases the risk of malformations by three, this medication should not be used in women of childbearing age. Nearly 300 women took it last year…
There carbamazepinea medicine indicated in mood disorders, certain forms of epilepsy and certain types of painshould not be used in adolescents and women old enough to have children, but also during pregnancy, warns the Medicines Agency (ANSM). This medicine is teratogenicthis means that it exposes in the event of pregnancy to risks of malformations for the unborn childincluding incomplete development of the spine (spina bifida), malformations of the face or skull, anomalies of the heart or of the fingers, malformations of the penis… The risk of malformation would be multiplied by 3 compared to children not exposed to this antiepileptic drug. Also, a new analysis of data from the scientific literature suggests an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, but this link has not been formally proven to date (a European assessment has been requested by the ANSM). To limit the risksthe ANSM wishes to modify prescription conditions and delivery of this medication by proposing to set up an information certificate co-signed annually by the prescriber and the patientthe presentation of which to the pharmacist would determine the dispensing of the medication.
“Carbamazepine may make your birth control pill less effective”
In 2022, 274 pregnant women were exposed to carbamazepine, according to data from the national health system (SNDS). However, carbamazepine should not be used in women of childbearing age, unless the benefit is judged to be higher risks after careful consideration of available therapeutic alternatives. Patients treated with carbamazepine must take precautions :
► If you are old enough to have children: Before starting treatment, your doctor may ask you to take a pregnancy test. You must use an effective method of contraception throughout the duration of treatment and until two weeks after stopping treatment. Carbamazepine can make your hormonal birth control, such as birth control pills, less efficient. Talk to your doctor about the best method of birth control to use
► If you have a pregnancy plan: consult your doctor who will be able to adapt your treatment. Do not stop your antiepileptic treatment or contraception before you have had a chance to talk to your doctor
► In the event of a pregnancy: contact your doctor immediately. If you are being treated for epilepsy, do not stop your treatment without talking to your doctor. A sudden stop can lead to an increase in seizureswhich could have serious consequences for you and your child.