Medicines for Partial Seizures

For most people, medicines can control partial seizures but it may take some time to find the best medicines for you. Your healthcare provider may try several kinds of medicines at varying doses before finding what works best for you. You can help make medicines a success by following these suggestions.

Keep your healthcare provider informed

It is always important to be under the regular care of a healthcare provider if you have a seizure disorder.  Do not be afraid to talk to him or her about your medicines. Speaking up is the only way your healthcare provider can know if your medicine is working right. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if:

• You are still having seizures. Keep a seizure calendar to accurately keep track of your seizures. 
• You notice any side effects from the medicine.
• You are taking any other medicines—even over-the-counter ones.

Make it a habit

Try some of these ideas to make it easier to remember to take medicine:

• Set a watch or clock to go off when it is time for the next dose.
• Keep medicine with things you use routinely. Store it near your makeup, toothbrush, or coffee mug, for example.
• Use a pillbox to count out all the pills you need for a week.
• Ask family, friends, or coworkers to remind you when it is time to take a dose.
• Consider a phone or Internet-based app that reminds you to take your medicine. 
• Keep your medicines out of reach from children.