Treatment

Most people with epilepsy will have their seizures controlled with one medication. The drug treatment used depends on the type of seizure. The drug dosage is increased step by step until seizures are controlled. Blood levels may be used to establish effective dosage. If necessary, a second drug is added when the first does not completely control the seizures. The dose of the second drug may be increased, and an attempt made to withdraw the first drug. Treatment with two or more drugs simultaneously may be necessary for some patients. It is essential that you take your medication as prescribed. Modern anti-epileptic medications have few side effects; however, if you're experiencing any side effects, make sure you speak to your doctor. Drowsiness is the most common side effect but is generally only a problem at the beginning of treatment. Some medications may produce behaviour problems or affect learning in children. Approximately 25% of people with epilepsy continue to experience seizures despite drug treatment.

When medication fails to control a patient's seizures, surgery may be considered. The decision to perform surgery depends on many factors, including: the frequency and severity of seizures, the patient's risk of brain damage or bodily injury from frequent seizures, the effect on quality of life, the patient's overall health, and the likelihood that surgery will control seizure episodes.

When a patient suffers series of generalized seizures, one after the other, without regaining consciousness, the condition is called status epilepticus. This is a life-threatening medical emergency. It is treated with intravenous medications, together with protective measures to keep the patient's airways open and to prevent injury to the patient's head and tongue.