⚡ Epilepsy / Seizures

Commonly prescribed medications, what to avoid, and lifestyle guidance

📋 Overview

Epilepsy causes recurrent seizures. Over 20 anti-seizure medications exist — the right choice depends on seizure type, age, sex, and other medications.

💊 Commonly Prescribed Medications

Levetiracetam (Keppra)Anti-seizure

Most commonly prescribed. Broad-spectrum. Few drug interactions. Can cause irritability.

Lamotrigine (Lamictal)Anti-seizure

Broad-spectrum. Good for women. Increase dose very slowly — rash risk.

Valproate (Depakote)Anti-seizure

Highly effective. Avoid in women of childbearing age — causes birth defects.

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)Anti-seizure

First-line for focal seizures. Many drug interactions. Monitor blood levels.

Topiramate (Topamax)Anti-seizure

Broad-spectrum. Causes word-finding difficulty. Good add-on therapy.

🚫 What to Avoid

Alcohol lowers seizure threshold. Sleep deprivation triggers seizures. Many anti-seizure drugs interact with contraceptives.

🥗 Lifestyle Tips

Never skip doses, regular sleep, avoid alcohol, medical alert bracelet, do not drive until seizure-free.

📋 Important Note

Valproate should be avoided in all women who could become pregnant due to severe birth defect risk.

🔍 Check Drug Interactions