Anti-seizure medicines (antiepileptics)
Anti-seizure medicines are prescription medicines taken to prevent seizures in epilepsy. Some are also used for certain kinds of nerve pain. They work best when taken regularly. They should never be stopped suddenly, because seizures can return.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Anti-seizure medicines (antiepileptics) work?
These medicines calm over-active electrical signalling between nerve cells in the brain, which makes a seizure less likely. Different medicines do this in different ways.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Anti-seizure medicines (antiepileptics). They are listed A to Z.
- Carbamazepine: Carbamazepine is a prescription anti-seizure medicine used to treat some types of epilepsy and the nerve pain of trigeminal neuralgia.
Common questions
Can I stop my anti-seizure medicine if I have no seizures?
Not on your own. Seizures can return if a dose is missed or stopped. Only a specialist can decide whether to reduce a medicine slowly, usually after a long seizure-free period.
Do anti-seizure medicines affect contraception and pregnancy?
Some do. Some can make hormonal contraceptives less reliable, and some can harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you could become pregnant or are planning a baby, and do not stop the medicine without advice.
Why do some labels mention mood or suicidal thoughts?
Reviews of anti-seizure medicines found a small increase in suicidal thoughts or behaviour. Tell a doctor promptly about new or worsening low mood or such thoughts.
Sources
- Epilepsy. NHS (UK)
- Carbamazepine. NHS (UK)
- Tegretol (carbamazepine) tablets, suspension, XR: prescribing information. DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine