• What can my friends and family do to help when I am having a seizure?
• What should I do if I feel a seizure coming on?
• Can epilepsy be cured?
• Will I pass epilepsy on to my children? Is it a genetic disease?
• Are all epilepsy drugs associated with side effects?
• What are possible side effects of antiseizure medications?
• How is treatment selected and started?
• What other things can I do to control seizures?
• Is it okay to go public about having epilepsy? Is it okay to discuss it at work?

What can my friends and family do to help when I am having a seizure?

The following information may be shared with your family friends, and co-workers. Here's a list of how to handle someone who is having a seizure:

• Stay calm.
• Don't try to restrain the person.
• Take away items that could cause injury if the person falls or bumps into them.
• Stay with the person, or make sure a trusted person stays.
• Gently turn the person on his or her side so any fluid in the mouth can safely come out. Never try to force the person's mouth open or put anything in it.
• Observe the seizure, so you'll be able to describe what happened before, during, and after the seizure.
• When the seizure is over, watch the person for signs of confusion. Allow the person to rest or sleep if he or she wishes.

What should I do if I feel a seizure coming on?

Some people cannot tell when a seizure is coming on. Others get certain warning signs, like a strange taste in the mouth, or feeling in the stomach. These people may be able to prepare for a seizure by avoiding driving or places like bathtubs, swimming pools, and areas with a lot of clutter or equipment. They may also be able to lie down to avoid falling or find a safe, secure place where they can rest.

Can epilepsy be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for epilepsy. Most seizures, though, can be managed with treatment. For some, seizures can be managed with a single medication. For others, more than one medication may be needed.

Will I pass epilepsy on to my children? Is it a genetic disease?

Genetics may play a role in some forms of epilepsy. Certain types of epilepsy even appear to run in families. However, there is currently no way of knowing whether a person with epilepsy will pass the disease on to his or her children.

Are all epilepsy drugs associated with side effects?

Yes. There are many different drug treatments approved for epilepsy. They all have side effects. Your doctor will create a treatment plan that takes into account your seizure type and the potential for side effects. It is important to ask questions about what effects you might experience and how to manage them.

Please click here for Depakote/Depakote ER uses and important safety information.

What are possible side effects of antiseizure medications?

Antiseizure medication side effects are specific to the drug you are taking. Side effects can range from mild to severe. It's very important to let your doctor know what side effects you are experiencing and their severity.

Please click here for Depakote/Depakote ER uses and important safety information.

How is treatment selected and started?

After discussing your medical history, your doctor will start you on a treatment plan. Most often drugs are introduced slowly. This means you will gradually work up to taking the full dosage. During the first few months of therapy, your doctor may order blood tests. How you are tested may depend on which drug you are prescribed.

What other things can I do to manage my seizures?

The best way to help prevent seizures is to take your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. But it is also good to strive toward living a healthy life:

• Take your medicines as directed
• Get plenty of rest
• Avoid alcohol
• Quit smoking
• Get and stay fit
• Learn relaxation methods (i.e., try yoga or meditation)

Be sure to discuss any lifestyle changes (i.e., new diet or fitness plan) with your doctor first.

Is it okay to go public about having epilepsy? Is it okay to discuss it at work?

This is a decision only you can make. Some people do not want to discuss their seizures at work. And every person has a right to that kind of privacy. Other people let their co-workers know in case a seizure occurs during office hours or while on the job. You should make this decision based on your own comfort level and safety. You may want to discuss the issue with your doctor or another healthcare provider.