Epilepsy & Seizures
Anticonvulsant medications used to control seizures.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes people to have recurring seizures. These seizures occur when clusters of nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain send out incorrect signals. This can lead to various unusual sensations, emotions, or behaviors, and in some cases, people may experience violent muscle spasms or lose consciousness.
Causes and Diagnosis
There are many possible causes of epilepsy, including illness, brain injury, and abnormal brain development. In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown. Doctors typically use brain scans and other tests to diagnose epilepsy.
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for epilepsy, treatment is important and can help control seizures for most people. A range of prescription medicines is often used to manage the condition. If medications are not effective, other options such as surgery or implanted devices, like vagus nerve stimulators, may be considered. Additionally, special diets can be beneficial for some children with epilepsy.
Why Treatment Matters
It is crucial to start treatment for epilepsy right away. Untreated epilepsy can lead to more frequent seizures and may significantly impact a person's quality of life.
When to See a Doctor
If you or someone you know is experiencing seizures or unusual behaviors, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation and diagnosis.
Medications used to treat Epilepsy & Seizures
Several classes of medication treat epilepsy & seizures. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:
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Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of epilepsy?
Symptoms of epilepsy can include strange sensations, emotions, unusual behaviors, violent muscle spasms, or loss of consciousness.
Can epilepsy be cured?
There is no cure for epilepsy, but treatments can help control seizures.
What tests do doctors use to diagnose epilepsy?
Doctors use brain scans and other tests to diagnose epilepsy.
What are some treatment options for epilepsy?
Treatment options for epilepsy include a range of prescription medicines, surgery, implanted devices, and special diets for some children.
Why is it important to treat epilepsy?
It is important to treat epilepsy to control seizures and improve the quality of life.
Compare prices for epilepsy & seizures medications
33 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.
- Carbamazepine
- Carbamazepine Er
- Clobazam
- Clonazepam
- Clorazepate Dipotassium
- Divalproex Sodium
- Divalproex Sodium Er
- Ethosuximide
- Felbamate
- Gabapentin
- Lacosamide
- Lamotrigine
- Lamotrigine Er
- Levetiracetam
- Levetiracetam Er
- Lorazepam
- Lorazepam Intensol
- Oxazepam
- Oxcarbazepine
- Phenobarbital
- Phenobarbital Sodium
- Phenytoin
- Phenytoin Infatabs
- Phenytoin Sodium
- Phenytoin Sodium Extended
- Primidone
- Sodium Valproate
- Tiagabine Hcl
- Topiramate
- Topiramate Er
- Valproate Sodium
- Valproic Acid
- Zonisamide
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Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.