Adherence Matters- Taking your medications makes a difference 

The majority of people with epilepsy have controlled Epilepsy with the main treatment being anti-seizure medications.

“Adherence” is the term which means that you take medications at the right dose at the right time.  It is the most important factor you can control in managing your seizures.

Taking daily medications can be a challenge.  It is critical for seizure control since even a single missed dose or two may result in a seizure breakthrough. 

Missed Medications

Studies show that 78% of breakthrough seizures are due to missed doses and 39% of emergency room visits for seizures are because doses have been missed. 

Missing pills also increases the risk of status epilepticus (prolonged seizures). Over half of the rare cases of sudden unexpected death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) were associated with low drug blood levels because medications were missed. 

Why do people miss pills?

Sometimes it is the schedule being used to take the medication.  

Studies have shown that the fewer times a day a medication is prescribed, the better the adherence. Many of the anti-seizure medications can be taken once or twice daily. Studies show this simpler schedule results in fewer missed pills than schedules where pills are taken three or four times a day. 

Forgetfulness, lack of routine, and busy schedules also may play a role in missing doses.

Let your doctor know which pills or doses you tend to forget so your dosing can be tailored to your activities.

Strategies that may help improve adherence:

1.  A pill box is a good reminder and shows if you have missed a dose. Some also have built in alarms to alert you. 

2.  Take your pills at times of predictable daily routines such as brushing your teeth or a specific meal or bedtime. 

3. Set an alarm on your phone. 

4. Mark on a chart or calendar each time you take your meds 

5.  Have a spouse or family member remind you or check if you took your meds. 

6. Ask your provider if there is a once-a-day formulation of your medication 

7. Carry extra medications with you daily and when you travel just in case you do forget!  

8.  Plan ahead for medication refills. 

Taking your anti-seizure medications is the most important factor you can control to manage your seizure disorder.

Missing pills increases the risk of seizures which may result in injuries, emergency room visits, and loss of the ability to drive.  Your goal together with your medical provider is “no seizures and no side effects!” 

Communicate with your care team about which doses you are missing and why.

Taking your anti-seizure medications regularly and reliably, or good adherence, truly makes a difference! 

YOU can make a difference! 

Author:

Joanne Rogin, MD 

Midwest Center for Seizure Disorders 

Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology