About Epilepsy > Epilepsy Treatments > Medications
How does medication treat epilepsy?
What medications are used in the treatment of epilepsy?
The “traditional” anti-epileptic drugs are:
- phenobarbital
- primidone (Mysoline)
- phenytoin (Dilantin)
- carbamazepine (Tegretol)
- valproic acid (Depakene)
- divalproex sodium (Epival)
- clonazepam (Rivotril)
- ethosuximide (Zarontin).
The “new” antiepileptic drugs are:
- clobazam (Frisium)
- vigabatrin (Sabril)
- gabapentin (Neurontin)
- lamotrigine (Lamictal)
- topiramate (Topamax)
- Diazepam Rectal Gel (Diastat)
Other new drugs not yet available in Canada are tiagabine, zonisamide and remacemide.
For more information on these and other anti-epileptic drugs, call 1-866-EPILEPSY.
Do anti-epileptic medications have side-effects?
All anti-epileptic drugs can have side effects. These vary from drug to drug and only affect some people. In general, however, it is common for people on anti-epileptic medication to experience drowsiness, fatigue, weight change, upset stomach and difficulties with concentration and memory.
Where can I get more info about a particular anti-epileptic drug?
You could ask your pharmacist or your doctor, or call 1-866-EPILEPSY for your nearest Canadian Epilepsy Alliance Member Office.