I am 22 with seizures on Valproate. Is Levetiracetam safer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 22 and have been having seizures since I was 16. Most of them are generalized tonic-clonic, but in the last three months, I have had two episodes, even though I am taking sodium valproate regularly. I often get a warning aura before it starts, like a strange smell and dizziness.

I feel very scared to go out alone because of this. My doctor suggested adding Levetiracetam, but I am worried about possible mood changes.

Can epilepsy ever be cured, or is it only controlled with medicines?
Is surgery an option in cases like mine? I just want to live a normal life without this constant fear.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Epilepsy is usually a long-term condition, but with proper treatment, many people live seizure-free lives, and some even achieve long-term remission.

Since you are still having seizures on sodium valproate, your neurologist’s suggestion of adding or switching to another medicine like Levetiracetam is reasonable. While mood changes can sometimes occur, most patients tolerate them well, and your doctor can adjust the dose or try alternatives if side effects appear.

The fact that you experience auras suggests your seizures may start from a focal brain area. In such cases, other treatment options may be considered if medicines alone do not provide control:

Medication adjustments: Combination therapy or trying different anti-seizure medicines.
Surgery: If seizures arise from a single identifiable brain region, removal of that area may help.
Device-based therapies: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) or responsive neurostimulation (RNS) can reduce seizure frequency.
Lifestyle and safety measures: Adequate sleep, avoiding alcohol, managing stress, and taking precautions (like not swimming alone or driving until cleared).

While a complete cure is not always possible, many people do achieve seizure freedom with tailored treatment. Do not lose hope. With close follow-up, careful medication planning, and the right safety strategies, there is a very good chance you can regain confidence and live more independently.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.