HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Meds

Support Forums
>
Epilepsy
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 5/8/2009 1:38 AM (GMT 0)

Hello...Sue here.  I am new to the forum and have a question about Meds.  Since a grand mal seizure on Jan. 1, '09 I have been on 250 mg. of Keppra 2x a day.  I have been completely seizure-free for 4+ months but have recently developed some odd, disturbing symptoms.  Today my Neurologist told me my symptoms of crying, metallic clinking sensations in my head, and daily migraines are side effects of Keppra.  He changed me to Depakote; but after reading the possible debilitating and even fatal side effects I have decided to stick with Keppra.  Has anyone taken Depakote?  How bad is the nausea?  ( I am Emetiphobic).  I understand it can cause liver failure.  Sounds HORRIBLE.  Does anyone know?  Thanks!

Posted 5/9/2009 5:48 AM (GMT 0)
i took depakote when i first started having seziures and i don't remember any nausea but i gained a lot weight real quick they i went to lamictial and topamax for migraines and weight loss but it wasn't strong enough so they added keppra and i take all those so that works well together i wouldn't go back if i was u if your having these symptoms they kinda sound like strong migraine symptoms so i would see bout adding on topamax for migraines
Posted 5/9/2009 5:55 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks so much...I am surprised you didn't have nausea but it gives me hope! cool Thank you for your suggestions.
Posted 5/12/2009 4:32 PM (GMT 0)
I've not heard of nausea very often as a side effect from our patients due to Depakote; I'm sure it's different for each person. Also, as far as the liver failure is concerned, as long as your neurologist keeps tabs on your liver function (labs) every few months, it shouldnt be come an issue. We check CBC, liver function, and med levels at least every 3 months to make sure everything is kosher. If anything changes as far as the liver function is concerned, we discuss with the patient the options of switching medications. Just remember, there are side effects with ALL medications, and the percentages of most of those are low. All you can do is try the medication and work in partnership with your doctor about any issues you may be having.
Posted 5/12/2009 4:43 PM (GMT 0)

Wow Jess...thanks so much for the info!  Sounds like you are a medical professional, and I appreciate your informed opinion.  Actually I'm doing fine on Keppra after realizing that my side effect symptoms are minor.  However, the information  you have given me eases my mind should I need to go on Depakote in the future.  After signing up for this website I am regaining my belief that there still are good people out there in this world!!

Sue

✚ New Topic ✚ Reply