If medication doesn't work
Most people’s seizures are controlled with medication. That is why medication is usually the type of treatment that is tried first. But if medication doesn’t stop all your seizures, or only stops some of them, there are other types of treatment that might be considered. This might be instead of, or alongside, ASM. Rather than waiting until you have tried lots of different ASMs, your specialist might talk to you about alternatives if two or three ASMs have not worked for you.
If your seizures are not controlled with medication, your specialist may want to review your diagnosis, the type of epilepsy or seizures you have, and the treatment you have had so far. They may refer you to a tertiary service (a specialist hospital or unit that focuses on specific care for different conditions) if they feel that more specialist treatment, other than ASM, would be appropriate for you.
Find out more about epilepsy and brain surgery
Coming off anti-seizure medication
If someone has not had a seizure for two or more years then they may think about withdrawing (coming off) their ASM.
Who can I talk to?
You might want to talk to your specialist,
ESN, GP, or pharmacist about your epilepsy
and your medication. Or you can call our
confidential helpline.
List of anti-seizure medication
List of anti-seizure medication (ASM), previously known as anti-epileptic drugs or AEDs, with details including dosage and possible side-effects.