Epilepsy

Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Seizures happen if there are changes in the way normal brain cells act or if brain cells send abnormal signals. During a seizure, too much electrical activity occurs in part of the brain and spreads to other areas. Consciousness, movement, sensation, speech, mood, memory, and emotions can all be affected during the one or two minutes that the seizure lasts. Antiepileptic drugs are chemical compounds that affect the brain. There are more than 20 drugs used in the treatment of epilepsy. They do not cure the condition but will often control seizures completely if taken regularly. If you have epilepsy, your physician will choose an AED based upon your seizure type, your age, and potential sides effects. There is often a trial and error period to determine the therapy for each individual patient. Thankfully, there are many choices for physicians and people with epilepsy. Antiepileptic drugs can makes seizures less frequent or they can help people with epilepsy lead a completely seizure-free life.

Vagus Nerve Stimulator

For some people with refractory epilepsy who cannot benefit from surgery, an implanted medical device-called vagus nerve stimulator or VNS-may be another treatment option. The vagus nerve connects the lower part of your brain to your heart, lungs, and intestines. In some people with epilepsy, stimulating the vagus nerve with small pulses of electrical energy every few minutes can prevent seizures, reduce their strength and number, and in some cases stop them in progress. The VNS device-which is about the size of a silver dollar-is surgically placed in the chest wall beneath the collarbone. The wires from the device connect to the vagus nerve in the neck. Once it is activated and depending how it is adjusted, the device turns on and off, stimulating your brain. The major side effect is having a hoarse voice during the brief periods that the stimulator turns on. Seizures are unlikely to be completely controlled with this device, but many people who have benefited from the treatment. Most will continue to take AEDs as well.

Talk to your neurologist

If you have questions about whether you -or someone you care for- could benefit from any of these treatment options, ask a neurologist. Together you and your doctor can determine which of these three recommended epilepsy treatment options will e the safest, most tolerable, and most likely to positively affect your quality of life.

© American Academy of Neurology