Posted by Scott L. Schofield on March 8, 2000, at 13:08:23
In reply to Re: Tegretol and Depakote blood-tests, posted by Janet on March 8, 2000, at 11:27:38
> Anyway, the prescription says tegrotol level and CBC. for the lab.
Q:. What does that cover ?
A: CBC stands for complete blood count. The types of blood cells looked at include granulocytes. If you were to develop agranulocytosis (impaired production of granulocyte white blood cells), this would be reflected as a reduction in the number ot these cells found in the blood.
Q: He told me to get it drawn 3-15-00. Could I do it sooner and have the results sent to my internist...?A: For Tegretol (carbemazepine), I believe it takes ten days or so after a dose change to establish an equilibrium of the drug in the body - a balanced steady-state. To take a blood test sooner than this would render the results to be of little value.
I would be curious to know how often your doctor wants you to take a blood test to screen for agranulocytosis.
> I have been depressed and very shakey and have headaches and my eyes hurt. Anyway, it could be worse.Yeah, I say that to myself all the time. Sometimes, I even believe it.
- Scott
poster:Scott L. Schofield
thread:25243
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000302/msgs/26368.html