Withdrawing medication

The reduction and withdrawal of medication is a complex decision usually negotiated over a period of time, between the epilepsy specialist and patient. The risks include increased risk of seizures. This has implications for driving, and the use of machinery.

If a person has been seizure free for 2 years, then consideration may be given to the withdrawal of medication in certain types of epilepsy.

Generally, medication is continued until at least a 2 to 3 year period free of seizures is established. Any drug withdrawal should be gradual, (i.e. over a period of 3 to 6 months).

Factors to take into account include:

• Driving (see section on epilepsy and driving)
• Employment
• Fear and risks of long term unwanted effects of Anti-Epileptic Drug (AED) treatment.

AED withdrawal is associated with an increased risk of seizure recurrence.

Amended November 2008