Treatment of Epilepsy - Drug Therapy

The main treatment for epilepsy is drug therapy with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). There are several AEDs available today, which are used to control or, for some patients, even stop seizures by reducing the sensitivity of the neurons that cause them.

Some AEDs are available in a range of doses and formats, e.g. tablets, liquid, nasal sprays, injections and suppositories to make taking your treatment as convenient as possible.

Almost all AEDs have two names:

• Brand, or manufacturer's name, e.g. Epilim.
• Generic, or basic chemical name, e.g. sodium valproate

You may come across some of the following, though the Brand name may change in different countries:

In the following pages you will hear more about AEDs and how to get the most out of your treatment:

• Controlling Seizures
• Epilepsy Treatment - Possible effects of Treatment
• Getting the Most Out of Treatment