Epilepsy refers to a type of neurological disorder in which the brain's electrical activity is disorganized. The Mayo Clinic says that 1 in 100 people within the United States will have an unprovoked seizure at least once in their lives. Signs of epilepsy include uncontrollable movements of the arms or legs, a staring spell, a loss of consciousness or confusion. Many medications exist to treat epilepsy.
Felbamate
Felbamate, commonly sold as Felbatol, is an anticonvulsant medication that controls seizures. Drugs.com states that felbamate's less serious side effects include a headache, blurry vision, a runny nose, constipation, diarrhea and fatigue. Its serious side effects include chills, a fever, stomach pain, a loss of coordination and shortness of breath. Call a doctor when felbamate causes these effects. Taking such medications as carbamazepine, divalproex, phenobarbital or phenytoin may interact with felbamate. This drug is a liquid taken daily or as prescribed.
Levetiracetam
Levetiracetam, commonly sold as Keppra, is another anticonvulsant medication, which decreases the electrical activity within the brain. MedlinePlus explains that some of levetiracetam's less serious side effects include dizziness, agitation, hostility, constipation and a poor appetite. This drug's serious side effects include a rash, itching, depression, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts. Call a doctor immediately when levetiracetam causes these effects. Do not breastfeed while taking levetiracetam because it may pass to the baby. This drug is a tablet or liquid taken 1 to 2 times daily.
Pregabalin
Pregabalin, commonly sold as Lyrica, is yet another medication that belongs to the category of drugs known as anticonvulsants. It decreases the amount of brain activity so seizures do not occur as frequently. Drugs.com says that pregabalin's less serious side effects include blurry vision, constipation, stomach pain, muscle or joint pain, drowsiness and anxiety. Pregabalin's serious side effects include easy bleeding or bruising, muscle weakness, rapid weight gain and swelling of the feet or hands. Call a doctor when pregabalin leads to these side effects. Suffering from congestive heart failure, kidney disease or diabetes may require a decrease in pregabalin's dose. Pregabalin is a tablet taken daily or as a physician instructs.
