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Trying to get off Dilantin
Thu, 01/26/2006 - 11:28Topic: Medication Issues
I'm trying to replace Dilantin with some other med that will have less side effects. The doctor tried Lamictal and it didn't work. Then I found out it wasn't really indicated for grand mal seizures. !#%!! Now my doctor wants to try Depakote. Can anyone give me some insight on changing drugs? Should I just stick with Dilantin because all these drugs have side effects that are just as bad?
Thanks
Comments
Re: Trying to get off Dilantin
Submitted by Bigebosw1 on Tue, 2006-02-14 - 20:11
I have been on dilantin and depakote for over 15 years. During all that time, I have been seizure free, but affected by the side-affects of these meds (especially the weight gain, tremors and hair loss of depakote). I have had a few grand mal seizures and several other types of seizures.
Recently a new neurologist I am seeing has taken me off dilantin (gradually) and gradually put me on trileptal. Thus far no significant issues and he is looking at reducing the depakote.
Re: Trying to get off Dilantin
Submitted by Megan1373 on Wed, 2006-02-15 - 01:17
Hi my name is Megan I was on Depakote for 14 yrs no side affects except being a lil sleepy at times. I am being switched to Keppra because of the complications in pregnancy due to depakote incase I decide to start a family. I personally loved Depakote. I just think side affects affect ppl differently. My sis loves Keppra I hate it. My grandpa is on Dilanton and it is the best thing for him.
I really miss my depakote. THere are pros and cons to everything tho.
Re: Trying to get off Dilantin
Submitted by angelbaby3409 on Sun, 2013-02-24 - 13:53
I was on Dilantin for 35yrs also. My neuro wanted me to come off it because it was such an old drug with so many side effects, but I refused because I thought it helped me. A low bone marrow test opened my eyes and I went to my neuro. First I tried Keppra, that just made me too agitated and nervous so now I am starting vimpat which is supposed to be an excellent new drug. Being on dilantin for as long as I was, my neuro took it very slowly (50mg a week) until I came completly off it. No problems doing it like that! Good luck to you! hope I helped a little