lamictal vs dilantin - Epilepsy Message Board

cobro · 08-25-2003, 02:59 PM

Hello all,

I have posted before regarding new meds, I am now on the 8th day slowly ramping up on lamictal while still taking dilantin.

I have read postings mostly regarding the bad side effects of dilantin. Is there anyone who has had a positive experiance with dilantin. I have been taking it for twenty years and really did not have any side effects.

I am also concerned that it has some postive effetcs. have any of you read "Dreyfus and dilantin".

Finally, can someone respond listing the side effects that they know about for dilantin. Short and long term.

Sorry to ask for so much info...

Thanks in advance.

Dan

Krazykcio · 08-25-2003, 08:52 PM

Hi Dan,
I really don't have any good answer to even one of your questions....but I just wanted to wish you well. I am not aware of any "good side effect" from Dilantin use, except that it stops seizures and that can't be a bad thing eh!?!

I am on Carbatrol and Lamictal. I personally didn't do real well on Dilantin (I felt like I was thinking through mud.) I LOVE Lamictal, because I think as clearly as I possibly can, considering I'm a blonde menopausal mother of three grown sons. Believe me, you've gotta see my three sons to appreciate what I'm saying. (Actually I am blessed by them.) So, I hope you find the answers you are seeking. Meanwhile, be well. Kathy

Art_930 · 08-26-2003, 06:58 AM

Cobra - your local library will have a copy of the PDR (Physicians Desk Reference) where you can see the 2-page tiny type manufacturer's scientific disclosures. As an overview - common side effects may include decreased coordination, involuntary eye movement, mental confusion, slurred speech, abnormal hair growth, abnormal muscle tone, blood disorders, coarsending of facial features, constipation, dizziness, enlargement of lips, fever, headeach, inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, joint pain, nausea, nervousness, overgrowth of gum tissue and more.

ritamymom · 08-26-2003, 10:25 AM

Hi Cobro

I have been on Dilantin for quite a few years. I have tried almost all of the other AED's with no reduction in my seizures. Dilantin has not stopped my seizures by any means but, it has been better then any of the others. I have not had any side affects other than the thinking. I agree "thinking through mud" wholeheartedly!
I have also been on Lamictal but got the dreaded "Lamictal rash" and was taken off of it immediately.
One side affect that i am concerned about with Dilantin is Osteoporosis (sp?). I do take Calcium and try and eat plenty of foods high in Calcium and also be sure to exercise.

Hope this helps!

R

cobro · 08-26-2003, 05:39 PM

Thank you, Krazykcio, Art_930 and Ritamymom for responding to my post, any and all information helps.

Krazykcio, how long have you been on lamictal and when you started did you ramp up the dosage slowly? .. also the lamictal did not work with out the Carbatrol?

Art_930, thank you, I will pick a PDR I have seen it referenced before. I think its worth the investment for myself and my family.

Ritamymom, When you started the lamictal did you ramp up slowly? What is this rash like? I feel I am waiting for it to start any minute, every itch I have I'm wondering.

It also bothers me that my doctor has never recommended any supplements. If he is not recommending something so basic what else is he not doing

and lastly, I sorry but what is (sp?)

thanks,

Dan