Possible Side Effects of Antiepileptic Drugs

Any type of medication, not just antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), can have side effects. These side effects can range from mild to severe. In order to help your doctor identify the treatment that may be best for you, it is important to be aware of the number of seizures you are having (if any), and also how these drugs make you feel.

Short term effects

Some side effects happen at the start of taking AEDs, while the body is adjusting to them:

• Sleepiness / fatigue
• Feeling unsteady, 'woozy' or dizzy
• Irritability
• Allergic reaction / skin rash (these may not disappear).

Some of these effects may lessen or disappear completely over time.

Long-term effects

More troublesome side effects can happen when certain drugs are taken for a long time. They may include the following:

• Poor memory and concentration
• Slow speech, word-finding difficulties
• Swollen gums
• Acne
• Weight gain / loss
• Hair loss or thinning / excessive hair growth in unusual places.

You should always inform your doctor if you suffer from these or any other side effects.

Never stop or change the dose of drugs yourself without checking with your doctor.