Side Effects Of Anticonvulsants

Headache

Headaches may sometimes occur in patients who take anticonvulsants. The patient may experience pain in the forehead or on one or both sides of the head, and neck pain might occur as well. To manage headache symptoms, patients may find it useful to keep a symptom diary that notes the time and duration of each headache and the particular symptoms that are present. It can also be beneficial to record any potential food or emotional triggers for the headache. For relief of mild to moderate headache pain, patients may wish to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, and several versions are available to specifically target headache pain. Relaxing in a quiet, dark environment away from noise and bright light might be soothing.

If headaches are intense or frequent, patients should speak to their neurologist as soon as possible to be examined for possible migraines. It is especially important to see a doctor for any headaches that continue for more than twenty-four hours, and patients should also make an appointment if their headaches do not improve with rest or cause significant disruption to their sleep and daily activities. Prescription medication for severe headaches may be prescribed to help manage symptoms, and switching to a different anticonvulsant could help reduce headaches in some individuals. If a headache occurs in conjunction with a high fever, confusion, nausea, vomiting, or weakness, the patient should obtain emergency medical attention.

Continue reading to learn more about the possible side effects of anticonvulsants now.

Issues With the Pancreas

A type of anticonvulsant known as divalproex sodium may cause potential issues with the pancreas in children and adults who use it. It is associated with pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that may be life-threatening. Patients taking this medication are more likely to develop pancreatitis if they are male, and the condition appears to be more common in individuals in their forties. Long-term use of divalproex sodium is believed to raise the risk of pancreatitis; it typically occurs in those who have been taking the medication for two to five years, and it has happened in individuals who have taken divalproex sodium for ten years or more as well. Case reports suggest chronic pancreatitis could develop with the use of carbamazepine or phenytoin as well. Symptoms of pancreatitis generally include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal swelling, fever, and abdominal pain that radiates to the back. Since pancreatitis can progress rapidly, patients should seek urgent medical attention if these symptoms occur. Individuals diagnosed with pancreatitis while taking divalproex sodium or another anticonvulsant will need to discontinue taking the medication, and this should be done under medical supervision.