Community Forum Archive
The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.
Getting of Dilantin while on Lamictal
Mon, 10/09/2006 - 17:14Topic: Medication Issues
I've been on dilantin for 7 years. I hate the facial hair and my teeth look terrible. I started Lamictal a couple of months ago for bipolar but am hoping it will help my seizures. Does anyone have some suggestions about how to do this safely and how long should I be on Lamictal before doing so? I plan on doing this with my neurologist when I see him in a couple of weeks. I expect a bumpy ride seizure wise, but wondered if anyone else had done it.
Getting off depakote was the smartest thing I have done. Now if I can get off dilantin (generic form) I will be in better health.
Thanks.
Comments
Re: Getting of Dilantin while on Lamictal
Submitted by Son of Cain512 on Mon, 2006-10-09 - 21:09
When I was first diagnosed with epilepsy Dilantin was the first med that my neurologist put me on. I could not handle the side effects. I felt high all the time, I couldn't remember anything and my gums looked really bad. After doing some research I decided I wanted to go on Lamictal and my neurologist agreed. I slowly decreased the amount of dilantin and increased the amount of lamictal. It was a clean transition and I am much happier on lamictal (as per my neurologist's direction).
Good Luck!!
Re: Getting of Dilantin while on Lamictal
Submitted by RobertBurns on Mon, 2006-10-09 - 19:44
I was on Dilantin for 40+ yrs then ramped down/up to Lamictal. My neurologist and I found my body tolerating the Lamicatal much better (haven been on it 10yrs - right after it was approved). The strangest thing I found during the Dilantin ramp down was a corresponding increase in blood pressure and finding out I was hypertensive after the Dilantin was "gone." You might want to keep an eye on that or mention it to your doctor. Good luch - hope all goes well.