Change of Meds - HELP? Im scared! - Epilepsy Message Board

PatriciaX · 06-25-2003, 04:33 PM

Hello

I've been diagnosed and taking dilantin (phenytoin in the UK

) for 3 years and been very stable generally (no GMs with a few dejavu episodes).

My husband and I are planning to start a family next year so obviously I need to think about changing my medication.

My neuro has suggested Lamotrigine would be a good alternative to be pased over a period of 6 weeks - I would really appreciate your thoughts and experiences on this.

He also suggested Gabapentin, Levetiracetam and possibly Topiramate - does anyone have any opinions or thoughts?

Thank you for your time

love
p
x

violarose · 06-25-2003, 05:31 PM

hi , no need to be scared, it will be ok. why does he want to change meds if you are stable?? congrats on your future family. those names seem unfamilar to me, maybe they have different names in the usa?

ckent08 · 07-01-2003, 09:50 AM

Some epilepsy medications can cause birth defects. While some may keep you stable on the seizure-front, the same medication could harm your unborn child. If your doctor suggests Topiramate, tell him you want Zonisamide instead. They work just the same except Zonisamide covers you for 63 hours as opposed to 21 with Topiramate and you won't be as cognitively impaired as you would on Topiramate. I was on Topiramate and it left me to disoriented. Since being on Zonisamide, I have never felt better.

I hope this helps.