Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is a common risk associated with prolonged carbamazepine use?

1. Bone density loss

2. Serum sodium imbalance

3. Increased liver enzymes

4. Vision changes

The correct answer is: Serum sodium imbalance

Prolonged use of carbamazepine is commonly associated with serum sodium imbalance, particularly causing hyponatremia. This occurs because carbamazepine can lead to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), which results in the retention of water and dilution of sodium levels in the blood. Monitoring serum sodium levels becomes crucial in patients taking carbamazepine for extended periods, as low sodium levels can lead to serious complications, including neurological disturbances. Bone density loss is a concern with many medications, but it is not specifically linked to carbamazepine in the same way as sodium imbalance. Increased liver enzymes can occur as a side effect of various medications, but carbamazepine is not primarily known for this in the context of chronic use. Vision changes may also be a concern with some medications, but they are not as directly related to carbamazepine as the issue of serum sodium levels.