Treatment can help most people with epilepsy have fewer seizures or stop having seizures completely.

Treatments include:

• medicines called anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs)
• surgery to remove a small part of the brain that's causing the seizures
• a procedure to put a small electrical device inside the body that can help control seizures
• a special diet (ketogenic diet) that can help control seizures

Some people need treatment for life. But you might be able to stop if your seizures disappear over time.

You may not need any treatment if you know your seizure triggers and are able to avoid them. Talk to your specialist about the treatments available and which might be best for you.

Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs)

AEDs are the most commonly used treatment for epilepsy. They help control seizures in about 70% of people.

AEDs work by changing the levels of chemicals in your brain. They don't cure epilepsy, but can stop seizures happening.

Types of AEDs

There are many AEDs. Common types include:

• sodium valproate
• carbamazepine
• lamotrigine
• levetiracetam
• oxcarbazepine
• ethosuximide
• topiramate
• The best type for you will depend on things like the type of seizures you have, your age and if you're thinking of having a baby.

Some AEDs can harm an unborn baby – see living with epilepsy for more information.

If your doctor recommends taking an AED, ask them about the different types available and which is likely to be the most suitable for you.

Taking AEDs

AEDs are available in a number of different forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids and syrups. You usually need to take the medicine every day.

Your specialist will start you on a low dose and gradually increase it until your seizures stop. If the first medicine you try doesn't work, your doctor may recommend trying another type.

It's important you follow any advice about when to take AEDs and how much to take. Never suddenly stop taking an AED – doing so could cause a seizure.

If you haven't had a seizure for a few years, ask your doctor if you might be able to stop treatment. If they think it's safe, your dose will be reduced gradually over time.

While taking AEDs, don't take any other medicines, including over-the-counter medicines or complementary medicines, without speaking to your GP or specialist. Other medicines could affect how well your AED works.