Seizure Medications and Mood
Can seizure medications cause mood changes?
Seizure medications can affect more than seizure control. Some people living with epilepsy experience negative mood changes, anxiety, irritability, or fatigue while taking anti-seizure medications. Levetiracetam, phenobarbital, and topiramate have been linked to an increased risk of depression, irritability, or other mood changes.
Mood side effects of seizure medicines are not always negative, however. Some seizure medications may improve mood, reduce anxiety, or provide other benefits for certain people. For example, lamotrigine has been associated with antidepressant benefits in some people.
Understanding how seizure medications affect mood and anxiety can help you recognize side effects and work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you. Because everyone responds differently, finding the right medication can take time.
Why Do Seizure Medications Affect Mood?
The areas of the brain involved in emotions and mood are closely connected to areas that can generate seizures. Seizure medications work by changing how brain cells communicate to reduce seizure activity. Because these same brain networks can also influence emotions, behavior, and thinking, medications can sometimes affect how you feel.
When starting a new medication or changing a dose, healthcare providers often monitor changes in mood, behavior, or thoughts of self-harm. Although anti-seizure medications carry warnings about suicidal thoughts and behaviors, researchers continue to study the extent of this risk.
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, we are here for you. Call the Epilepsy & Seizures Helpline at 1-800-332-1000. If you are thinking about suicide, please call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988. Or chat with someone online at https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/. Trained counselors are available to help.
Why Does One Medication Affect Me Differently Than Another?
Each seizure medication works in a different way and targets different brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. These chemicals help regulate mood, emotions, and behavior as well as seizure activity. As a result, one medication may affect your mood while another does not.
Side effects can also depend on several other factors, including:
- Your individual biology and mental health history
- How quickly the dose is increased
- The dose you are taking
- Other medications you use
- Your overall physical and emotional health
If you notice changes in your mood after starting a new medication or changing a dose, tell your healthcare provider. Sometimes adjusting the dose is enough to reduce side effects. In other cases, switching medications may be a better option.
Common Mood and Behavior Side Effects
Possible mood- and behavior-related side effects include:
- Depression or sadness
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Irritability
- Anger or aggression
- Mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Fatigue or low energy
- Improved mood
Not everyone experiences these side effects, and many people take seizure medications without significant changes in mood or behavior.
FAQ
Can seizure medications cause depression?
Some anti-seizure medications have been associated with depression or mood changes in some people. The risk varies based on the medication and the individual.
Can seizure medications cause anxiety?
Yes. Some medications may contribute to anxiety, nervousness, or irritability in certain individuals.
Do all seizure medications affect mood?
No. Many people take anti-seizure medications without experiencing significant mood changes.
What should I do if my seizure medication affects my mood?
Talk with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. They may recommend adjusting the dose or changing medication to help reduce side effects while maintaining seizure control.
Resources
Epilepsy Centers
Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.
Epilepsy Medication
Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.
Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline
Call our Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.
Tools & Resources
Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.
