• How do they work?
• Will I have to take anti-epileptic drugs for the rest of my life?
• Why should I take my anti-epileptic drugs?
• Side-effects of anti-epileptic drugs
• Anti-epileptic drugs and contraception

How do they work?

Epilepsy is usually treated with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). They act on the brain, trying to reduce seizures or stop seizures from happening. Lots of people with epilepsy find that when they take their AEDs properly, they have fewer or no seizures.

If you take AEDs, it’s really important to take them as your doctor tells you. AEDs usually have to be taken at the same time every day, to keep a constant level of the drug in your bloodstream. If you forget to take your AEDs, or suddenly stop taking them altogether, you’re at a higher risk of having a seizure.

Next time you see your doctor or epilepsy specialist, it’s a good idea to ask them what you should do if you ever accidentally forget to take your AEDs on time.

If your AED doesn’t work straight away, don’t give up. Get some advice from your doctor or epilepsy nurse. There are loads of different AEDs available, so it can take time for your doctor to find the best treatment and dose for you.

Will I have to take anti-epileptic drugs for the rest of my life?

The best person to ask is your epilepsy specialist.  Some people with certain types of epilepsy may ‘grow-out of it’ in adulthood and no longer need to take anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). Some people with epilepsy do need to take AEDs for the rest of their lives.
If you’ve been seizure free for a few years, you could talk to your doctor or epilepsy specialist about your AEDs. They can advise you if it would be safe to gradually cut down or stop taking your AEDs altogether. They’ll also tell you the best way to do it.    

Why should I take my anti-epileptic drugs?

It’s important to keep taking your AEDs, even if you haven’t had a seizure in a while. If you stop taking your AEDs you may have more seizures. Or you might have worse seizures.

• More information about the risks of having epilepsy

Side-effects of anti-epileptic drugs

Like most drugs, anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) can cause side-effects. These vary from person to person and depend on which AED you take and any other medicines you take.

Some examples of possible side-effects of AEDs are poor memory, concentration problems, tiredness, weight gain, weight loss or acne (spots). You should always get an information leaflet with your AEDs, that lists any known side-effects of that drug.

If you notice that you are having any side-effects, or are worried about any of the possible side effects, talk to your doctor. They might be able to suggest ways to treat the side-effects, or consider changing your epilepsy treatment. 

Anti-epileptic drugs and contraception

Some AEDs make some forms of contraception work less well. This could lead to an unplanned pregnancy. See the information about contraception for more information.

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