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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.

How To Know When To Increase The Dose Of Meds?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Minneapolis, MN

Besides the increase of the number of seizures, how do you know when to ask your doctor to increase your dose of meds?

September 29
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

You Neurologist / Epileptologist has us get our blood drawn , to check our medication levels out . If the levels of the med(s) are low , the Dr. will increase the dosage..

September 29
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Generally when your seizures begin to increase, you should speak with your doctor about the medication and whether or not he wants to increase one of your current medications or possibly even a new medication. One thing many doctors fail, in my own experience, to look at is the possibility of what side effects you may have due to the high dosages. As soon I changed doctors he said that he was going to cut back on one of my medications and begin mme on a new medication because I shouldn’t take that medication at a high dosage, especially since I have been taking it so long. We were able to cut back although unfortunately not able to get me off of it.
But I must say that I have been in the hands of the Lord and I may be able to have surgery and then they could cut back on the amount of medication that I currently take. 👍❤️🙏

September 29
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Neurologists usually require a 6 month draw, but more often if you’re having seizure activity. But one definitely is supposed to wait on their Dr to increase dosage if and when it is low or the seizures intensify. Then again, you could be taking the highest recommended dose of a med, and it could be damaging or dangerous to increase it. So you really need to follow medical advice to stay safe.

October 16
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Increase your dosage ONLY if your doctor/neurologist prescribes that.

September 29
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

In my opinion I think the new Dr should have said something about your med levels.

October 4
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