Anticonvulsant prescriptions available online

Barbiturates

Barbiturates are most often used to treat seizures in epileptic patients. They bind to the GABA receptor, enhancing the actions of GABA by extending GABA-mediated channel openings. Barbiturates may also be used for anesthesia reasons, insomnia, and other conditions. They belong to the sedative-hypnotic class of medications.

We do not prescribe controlled substances. You can learn more about our controlled substances policy.

Examples of barbiturate anticonvulsant drugs include:

Hydantoins

Hydantoins are mainly used to treat partial seizures and epileptic seizures. They help reduce seizures by inactivating the sodium channel throughout the nerves, which helps reduce electrical impulses and release neurotransmitters. As a result, they reduce the development of seizure activity and the frequency of seizures.

Examples of hydantoin anticonvulsant drugs include:

Succinimides

Succinimides are mainly used to treat absence seizures or seizures that involve brief and sudden lapses of attention. They're thought to increase the seizure threshold, inhibit T-type calcium channels, and inhibit the 'spike and wave' discharge with absence seizures.

Examples of succinimide anticonvulsant drugs include:

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to treat epilepsy, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and insomnia. They work by enhancing the effect of GABA, which sends calming messages to the body.

We do not prescribe controlled substances. You can learn more about our controlled substances policy.

Examples of medication in the benzodiazepine drug class include:

Neuronal potassium channel openers

Neuronal potassium channel openers are mainly used to treat epilepsy in adults. They help reduce seizures by targeting the potassium channel present throughout the nerves.

Examples of neuronal potassium channel opener antiepileptic drugs include:

Side effects of anticonvulsant medications

When taken as prescribed, anticonvulsants are generally well tolerated. However, they can still cause some side effects. The more common side effects of anticonvulsant medications include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach

• Loss of coordination

• Drowsiness

• Headache

• Double vision

In rare cases, anticonvulsant drugs may cause serious side effects. These can include:

• Signs of liver damage (jaundice, abdominal pain, dark urine)

• Rapid weight gain

• Sores, blisters, or ulcers in your mouth

• Excessive bleeding that won't stop

• Fever

Anticonvulsant risks

Anticonvulsants are generally safe, but there are some risks if you have other medical conditions or take certain medications.

Before you take a prescribed antiepileptic drug, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions or issues:

• Allergic reaction to antiepileptic drugs

• Porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that affects the skin and nervous system)

• Psychiatric disorders

• Suicidal thoughts or actions

• Heart problems

• Liver disease

• Diabetes

Anticonvulsant drug interactions 

When you begin a new medication, tell your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbs you take. Some medications that might interact with an anticonvulsant medication include:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)

• Ativan (lorazepam)

• Plavix (clopidogrel)

• Lasix (furosemide)

• Neurontin (gabapentin)

• Xanax (alprazolam)

There are several anticonvulsants that a doctor can prescribe for the treatment of seizures and other conditions, such as neuropathic pain, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Some examples of anticonvulsants include:

• Carbamazepine (Tegretol) treats seizures and trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain). It is also sometimes used off-label to treat bipolar and other mood disorders.

• Valproic acid (Depakene): This medication treats seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine headaches.

• Lamotrigine (Lamictal) treats seizures, bipolar disorder, and neuropathic pain.

• Gabapentin (Neurontin) treats seizures, neuropathic pain, and restless leg syndrome.

• Pregabalin (Lyrica) treats neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and anxiety disorders.

• Topiramate (Topamax) treats seizures and migraine headaches. It is also sometimes used off-label to treat bipolar and other mood disorders.

It is essential to work closely with your doctor to determine which anticonvulsant is best for your needs based on your medical history, symptoms, and other factors. Your doctor will also monitor you closely while taking anticonvulsants to ensure they are working correctly and watching for any potential side effects.