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Dilantin & Trileptal with pregnancy
Wed, 03/23/2016 - 21:18Topic: Women With Epilepsy
I've had seizures for about 15 years. I've been on a combo of Dilantin (300mg) and trileptal (1200mg) for 14 years. I've been seizure free for over 10 years, with the exception of a breakthrough seizure while hospitalized...they took me of the dilantin cold turkey bc they thought it was causing my lupus. They put me on keppra and I had two seizures. After that I went back to the old combo and haven't had another seizure in 5 years.
Now we're wanting to start a family and I'm debating if I want to switch medication. My doctor would like me to start on Lamictal and first wean of the dilantin, then eventually the trileptal too. I'm just wondering if anyone out there has had a baby while on dilantin and trileptal, and what we're your experiences.
From what I've read, there's a 10% chance of birth defects. From my experience is much more likely that I'll have seizures if I try and switch. Also, I've already been on 1mg/day of folic acid for the past 10 years, and my doctor just upped it to 4mg/day now that I'm trying to conceive. Any feedback would be much appreciated!
Read my story (want to hear a
Submitted by margiefox118@live.com on Wed, 2016-03-30 - 13:15
Read my story (want to hear a funny one?) and it will give u an example of effects dilantin can have on a fetus. Lamictal has been proven to have much less effect on pregnancy. If your neurologist knows it will help your epilepsy I urge you to try it. It was not an option back when I wanted kids but is now a wonderful choice for anyone who wants to conceive. Your worries can be alleviated and you will soon have the child of your dreams!