Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About MyEpilepsyTeam
Powered By
Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I Have Been Seizure Free 6 Years. My Neurologist Increased Lamictal Because After Bloodwork, Said It Was Not At Therapeutic Level. Why?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Augusta, GA

I don't understand why I would need more medication if I am seizure free. It makes me sleepy and depressed. I have been on seizure medication for 50 years and seems to me it causes clinical depression which I have dealt with for many years.

February 23, 2019
View reactions
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Talk to your doctor. You may be getting too much, which gives you those effects. Do you have the same doctor, or a new one? There must be a reason?

September 27
Sponsored Content
Check out this guide on talking to your doctor about epilepsy treatments Read more >
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

When any AED ( AntiEpileptic Drug ) levels are low and the Dr. Doesn’t increase the dose, there’s a chance that yours seizures will come back. Your Dr. Is just making sure your seizures stay under controlled.

December 24, 2023
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

It’s all relative. What time of day was it compared to others draws? When had eaten? Did you miss a dose in 24 hrs? Exercise last? …my kepra can be very low and I’m up to speed. Is their a trend line for your results online?

December 24, 2023
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

You have the ultimate say here. Can you speak with your doc about your concern? If you're uncomfortable, maybe you need another MD. Its hard to be assertive sometimes, but I think your argument is very reasonable. Therapeutic doses are in fact different for everyone. Research gives us a range, based on trials that historically involved a very narrow demographic (white, male). Trust your body, and talk to your provider. You can always up the dose IF you begin experiencing symptoms. I hope this is useful.

February 21, 2023
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

The only time they increase the meds is when your blood levels are low.

February 26, 2019

Related content

View All

Who Is Or Was On Phenobarbital?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Maspeth, NY

Parkinsonism

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bulwer, South Aftica

How Long Does It Take For New Meds To Get To A Therapeutic Dose?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Southampton, UK
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in