How Long Does It Take to Adjust to New AEDs?

Thank you Chris. with my short term memory being difficulty right now you may have to message me on what site or link we were going to cover something, i recently had a set back and its affecting my short term more than usual.

I switched from Lacosamide to Briviact over the course of a month. Lacosamide just didn’t work well for me - I had 24 sleep seizures in a year. Neurologist gave me detailed instructions but basically you want to build up the new medication in your blood before you take the old medication away. Briviact is a newer medication, kind of like Keppra but more highly targeted, with no mood issues. I encourage anyone with medication-resistant epilepsy to ask their neurologist if Briviact is an option.

@randallshields56
Hi Randy,
No problem, I completely understand the memory issues many of us face. By the way, you were very courageous to speak so openly about it. I used to feel ashamed of my memory problems and would hide them. Through years of therapy with my neuropsychologist, I learned to accept them and live with them without shame.
Now, on days when my brain isn't working well, I give myself permission to take time off. I've learned that pushing myself to do something I know will be difficult on those days brings more harm than good.
I'm not sure I understood your question correctly. Were you asking where I found the article about how long it takes to adjust to a new AED? Here's the link again:
https://www.myepilepsyteam.com/resources/new-epilepsy-meds-how-long-does-it-take-to-adjust
Let me know if that's not what you were asking!
Chris

@earlylonghauler
I'm so happy to hear you've been adapting well to Briviact after your experience with Vimpat (Lacosamide)! Lacosamide didn't work for me either—I couldn't tolerate it and became very sick. However, the doctor who prescribed it introduced it too quickly without the careful fine-tuning process that your doctor is doing (and that my current doctor does).
That said, I know some people who have had great success with Lacosamide. As my doctor always says: "every patient is unique." What works for some might not work for others.
Based on my own journey, I've learned how crucial the process of introducing a new medication can be—the care and attention to detail can make all the difference in its success. I'm so glad your doctor is being this thoughtful with you.
How long have you been taking Briviact now? Have your seizures stopped? Would you mind sharing what kind of epilepsy you have?
Wishing you continued success with Briviact!
Chris

@santosha now i recall too many things crossing bridges in my mind. you first got this one spot on- the other was you were going to do a video chat or something and ask me some questions. that's all i have. its been a long day already. are you still in Brazil or stateside?

@randallshields56
Good morning!
I imagine you might still be sleeping - it's quite early in the States right now. I'm writing from São Paulo, Brazil, where I was born and have lived most of my life. I've also spent part of my life in Europe, where my parents are from.
Where in the US are you located? You may have mentioned it before, but I'm drawing a blank at the moment!
Have a beautiful day!
Chris

@santosha that was so kind. i an in Virginia and we are to get snow this weekend
sorry . going to have to read this later or tomorrow my meds are catching up to me. wish i were in some ways in a better place than this. anyway i am blessed knowing this fine group of people , and will reply better tomorrow. just been a rough 24 hours.