Alternative Medicines in Epilepsy

Abstract

Despite the fact that there is little evidence to support their use in the treatment of seizures and epilepsy, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) remains a popular choice for individuals with and without seizures. Some nonmedicinal complementary and alternative medication regimens are appropriate for use in people with seizures as an approach to behavioral therapy and nonmedicinal approach to reduce stress and anxiety. However, there are certain supplements compounded that could interact with ongoing antiseizure medications (ASM), resulting in breakthrough seizures as a complication to use. Neurologists and other physicians need to remember to ask their patients whether they are taking over-the-counter supplements in order to best help understand their drug use. Moreover, medical cannabis is now used commonly by epilepsy patients. They may be used as an herbal supplement available by direct delivery from web-based companies or medical treatment obtained at dispensaries. Supplements purchased from these sources are not necessarily equivalent to the prescription-based cannabidiol now available as prescription ASM.