Patients & Caregivers

Patient Perspective

Mark's Experience With Epilepsy

As told by Mark Ashby, diagnosed with epilepsy

In 1981, I was an 18-year-old active duty US Marine when I suffered from several grand mal seizures and was diagnosed with epilepsy. My Marine Corps career ended abruptly because of the diagnosis and I was medically discharged.

Right after my diagnosis, my life was a tough road. I first began treatment with a medication that had significant side effects, and I felt like I was at the bottom of the bottom. The effects of the medication impacted my lifestyle and I was no longer able to physically train as I had in the Marines. At one point, I stopped taking my medication.

As technology and medicine improved over the years, my doctor switched me over to a medication that had fewer side effects. But I still didn’t feel like my old self. In 2003, however, my doctor suggested I try Carbatrol because he had seen positive results with other patients on the medication and felt that I also might benefit from this treatment. I tried it, and I finally felt like me again! Since my doctor prescribed Carbatrol for me, I have not experienced a seizure when I have taken my twice-daily dose. The Carbatrol Full Prescribing Information states that the most common side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, nausea and vomiting.

Since being prescribed Carbatrol, I have been able to enjoy the very active, athletic lifestyle that means so much to me. Because I am confident with Carbatrol, I can now push myself to perform at the highest level without worrying as much about having a seizure.

In fact, I am now doing things I would have never dreamed of back when I was first diagnosed with epilepsy. In the span of seven months in 2005, I completed the Ironman Arizona and the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii. These triathlons each combine a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike race and 26.2-mile run. I also completed five half-Ironman triathlons and placed second and third in my age division in two of the competitions.

I realized I have a gift and the perseverance to participate in these events, but I know that I couldn’t do it without regularly taking my medication.

This patient testimonial reflects one patient's experience with epilepsy and his treatment with Carbatrol. Patients on antiepileptic drugs may experience breakthrough seizures. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Patients are advised to consult with their physician before beginning any medical treatment for epilepsy.

Carbatrol Gives You Freedom

The Carbatrol capsule can be sprinkled on soft foods and eaten, giving an option to patients with difficulty swallowing pills. Carbatrol capsules or their contents should not be chewed or crushed.

Anticonvulsants should be taken in the manner and at the times prescribed by the physician.

Important Safety Information for Patients and Caregivers

Carbatrol^® contains carbamazepine. If you are currently taking another medication that contains carbamazepine, do not begin taking Carbatrol without discussing this with your healthcare provider.
If you are taking any other medications, including oral contraceptives, over-the-counter medications, or herbal products, be sure to inform your healthcare provider, as Carbatrol can interact with other medications.
Carbatrol was generally well tolerated in clinical studies. The most common side effects, particularly when first starting on Carbatrol, were dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, nausea, and vomiting.
Serious skin disorders have been reported with use of carbamazepine. These skin disorders may be more common in patients of Asian ancestry. Patients of Asian ancestry who have a specific gene (HLA-B*1502) may be at increased risk. Patients of Asian ancestry should be tested for this gene prior to starting Carbatrol.
Contact your healthcare provider if you have any unexplained bruising, fever, or infection. Products that contain carbamazepine have been associated with rare but serious types of blood disorders.
Carbamazepine can cause fetal harm. Contact your healthcare provider if you are considering becoming pregnant, or are pregnant, in order to discuss the continued benefits and risks.
People with a history of bone marrow problems, or who are allergic to carbamazepine, or who are sensitive to tricyclic antidepressants should not take Carbatrol.
Certain types of seizures (absence seizures or petit mal) do not appear to be controlled by carbamazepine.

See Important Safety Information for Patients & Caregivers

Carbatrol^® is registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

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