Posted by
RWJ on January 03, 2000 at 02:38:52:
I began taking Dilantin in 1967 and a few years later my doctor added phenobarbitol. After about ten years, lung cancer killed my first doctor. My second doctor continued witht the same medications and dosages. I was having an average of 1 seizure every 3 years and was told that was very good control. Neither my first or second doctors EVER said I needed blood tests. Then my second doctor retired. The third doctor insisted I have a test, even though I told him I just didn't have the money. Still he insisted. Everything was just fine. Two years later he insisted I have another test. Then it went to 18 months, then every year. Then he retired. The first time I saw the fourth doctor, I was told I'd need a test every 6 months, even though every test I had taken in the past was ok. I put up somewhat of an arguement and got the new doctor to go from 6 months to once a year. I have a battle with the bill collectors trying to collect for the tests. I would like to know how often others get tested. Do the makers of Dilantin and phenobarb suggest anything about testing?
