Epilepsy is a brain disorder characterized by abnormal electrical signals that cause seizures. These electrical signals are generated by clusters of nerve cells called neurons. Neurons fire, or send a signal, much faster during an epileptic seizure--as fast as 500 times per second, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Types of seizures can vary widely. Some people may experience a condition in which they have a momentary blank stare. Other people may experience convulsions. The type of medication prescribed for people with epilepsy varies with the type of seizures, the age of the patient, the possibility of pregnancy, the frequency of seizures and other factors.
Initial Diagnosis
For people who have recently developed epilepsy, the medications that are typically prescribed include, oxcarbazepine, lamotrigine, carbamazepine valproate and phenytoin. Patients who are diagnosed with epilepsy should begin treatment as soon as possible to control seizures. Once seizures and complications have become established in a patient, medications and other treatments may be less effective.
Absence Seizures
An absence seizure is also referred to as a petite mal seizure. These seizures are characterized by brief and sudden absences of conscious activity. These are the seizures that cause momentary blank stares. Although these are considered mild seizures, they are still dangerous because, for example, of the danger of drowning while swimming. The primary medication that is typically prescribed for patients who experience absence seizures is ethosuximide. Other antiepileptic medications for patients with absence seizures include phenobarbital, clonazepam and primidone.
Other Medications
Newer medications that have been developed to treat epilepsy include levetiracetam, tiagabine, felbamate, gabapentin and topiramate. Sometimes other drugs may be used in combination with the common medications in order to treat patients who respond to initial treatments. Diazepam is a medication available as a gel for patients who have recurring severe seizures. The gel form allows family members to apply the diazepam to treat the seizures as they occur.
