Question about epilepsy/ phenobarbitol/ doctor visits

[AprilTN]

I have an elderly relative that has epilepsy and has taken anti-seizure Meds for many many years. He has to go for check ups every 3 months in order to have his prescription refilled. Does anyone know if this is the norm? My dh and I were wondering if he really has to go or if the doctor is just having him come in unnecessarily.

 

Thanks!

[JFSinIL]

My son is on generic seizure meds and has had to do blood draws every 3 months to check levels and see the neuro. every three months.

[Scuff]

That sounds like it's very often. Are they adjusting his dose? I took phen. as a child and had to go in every year or two (don't remember) for an EEG, but otherwise didn't visit the dr for it. That was several years ago ;) so perhaps things have changed? Dh's sleep dr wanted him to keep coming in for "follow-up" visits that were pointless. Eventually he just stopped going.

 

Yeah, they did take blood a lot too. But I don't remember seeing a specialist that often. I probably should've just stayed quiet. Too long ago. :)

Edited April 8, 2012 by Scuff

[KirstenH]

Are you sure it's phenobarbital? That's DEA schedule 4, so every three months seems excessive, but there are some anti-seizure meds that are schedule 2 and 3 that would require more frequent visits to obtain prescriptions.

[bettyandbob]

many years ago dd was on a different siezure med. That drug required blood draws every 30 days because of liver issues and doctor appointment follow up.

 

I don't think phenobarbitol has the same issues. Is this the drug being prescribed and is your relative still having seizures?

[Whereneverever]

I think neuro docs pretty typically want to see people between three to six months.