Switching from Topamax to Vimpat.

Hi @shelly9541
Be welcome to our community at Connect!
I understand how challenging and distressing memory issues can be. My seizures are also mostly partial complex ones, and I've noticed memory decline over the years. I'm 54 now.
My understanding is that the memory decline we experience is related to multiple factors, with medication and dosage being one of them. Other equally important factors include epilepsy type, seizure control, and lifestyle, not to mention age. For women, menopause can also play a role.
I was on Vimpat from 2019-2021 and didn't adapt well to it, having experienced memory issues too. However, I know others who do well on this medication. As my doctor says, everyone is unique, even with the same epilepsy type. I'm on a different AED now but still face some memory challenges. Interestingly, I realize my memory decline began before my epilepsy diagnosis and treatment. I lived many years without knowing I had epilepsy.
Accepting memory decline is difficult, I know firsthand. But there are coping strategies I've learned from my neuropsychologist. I also try to stay active with reading, learning new things, exercising, healthy eating, and good sleep.
I'm sharing here two helpful resources from the Epilepsy Foundation:.
Diagnosing And Treating Memory Problems
https://www.epilepsy.com/complications-risks/thinking-and-memory/diagnosing-memory-problems
Thinking and Memory
https://www.epilepsy.com/complications-risks/thinking-and-memory
You mentioned you have complex partial seizures - do you know your specific epilepsy type? Some types affect memory more than others. Have you had a neuropsychology testing to evaluate your memory changes? If not, it's worth discussing with your doctor.
Chris

Hello,
My epilepsy was diagnosed at 17 years old. The memory issues started when I started taking topamax in my 30s. But it was sooo much better than dilantin, which I was the only one I had used. Ive had the same neurologist for a very long time that retired. I feel this new one isn't listening, and she's just putting me on another drug with all the same side effects. I was just looking to see if anyone had any experience with vimpat. positive or negative. Thank you.

I didn't do well on Topamax but am now on Vimpat & doing well. I will be turning 52 next month.

Hi @shelly9541
Thank you for sharing that additional information with me.
As I shared already, Vimpat didn't work well for me either, but my doctor at the time kept insisting on it. That's actually what prompted me to seek a second opinion, which led to changing both my doctor and my medication.
Since you feel your current doctor isn't listening to your concerns, have you considered getting a second opinion?
Chris

That's really good to know @audo! It's interesting how differently we all respond to these medications. I know quite a few people who take Vimpat and benefit significantly from it.
What type of epilepsy do you have, if you don't mind me asking? And how long have you been on Vimpat?
Chris