Approximately 3 million Americans, children and adults alike, have been diagnosed with some form of epilepsy. There are more than 45 seizure medications currently available to help manage seizure activity in adults and children. In some cases, doctors prescribe only a primary drug for treatment or opt to combine add-on drugs. Educating yourself about both the benefits and side effects of commonly prescribed seizure drugs can be very helpful.
Depakote
Also prescribed as Depakene and Depakote ER, this seizure medication is most frequently given to those who suffer from partial seizures. In some cases, it is used to treat generalized seizures as well. Because this drug may cause an increase in liver enzymes, periodic blood tests are necessary to check liver function.
The most common side effects reported with Depakote, according to the Epilepsy Foundation, are nausea and vomiting, although many patients experience an increase in appetite, resulting in weight gain. Hair loss is another common side effect, although this is generally a temporary condition. Liver damage is another side effect, most commonly seen in children under the age of two.
Dilantin
The first anticonvulsant developed, Dilantin is still prescribed as the first form of treatment for people suffering from partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Some of the more common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, problems concentrating or double vision. If you take Dilantin for a long period of time, you may experience an overgrowth of your gums, develop excess body hair or a rash.
Klonopin
While Klonopin is a benzodiazepine (tranquilizer), it is often used as an add-on medication for the treatment of specific seizure types such as myoclonic, absence and atonic. Over time, the body can become tolerant of current doses, making the medication ineffective. To combat this, the doctor will adjust the dosage. Other side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, depression, slurred speech and a worsening of tonic-clonic seizures.
Topamax
Considered an add-on rather than primary medication, Topamax is prescribed for both children and adults suffering from partial seizures or generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Fatigue, lack of concentration, drowsiness, unsteadiness, dizziness and problems with speech are among the most commonly reported side effects.
Zonegran
Zonegran has been available in Japan for many years, although it wasn't approved by the FDA for use in the United States until 2000. It, too, is considered an add-on drug, however it may interact negatively with Dilantin, Carbatrol and Depakote. Its most frequently reported side effects include fatigue and drowsiness, but patients may also experience depression, difficulty concentrating and a loss of appetite. Zonegran is believed to be especially effective in those who suffer from myoclonic seizures.
