New Member!! with conerns/questions

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mchloe

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Hey guys,
I am new to this forum and was hoping I could find some advice. I had my frist absence seizure at 6 yrs old and then my first grand mal in 6th grade. I was seizure free until college when I was not taking good care of myself. I ended up having 3 seizures within 3 yrs. I am now 29 and have been seizure free since. I have been on Depakote, since I was 6 yrs old, which has been great w/ no side effects. I am now wanting to start a family but know I need to switch meds. My neurologist mentioned he would switch me to Lamictal. I am very nervous switching meds as Depakote has worked great for me, however I do want to try for a family. Has anyone else been switched from Depakote to Lamictal and had good success? I am very nervous regarding switching!!
 
Welcome mchloe - I can understand your concern. We all want the very best for our unborn.
I do not have any personal information on this subject, but those dealing with similar issues I am sure will be along shortly, to post helpful advice, or links that you will be able to make a better decision.
I am glad that you reached out, and I hope you find the members here supportive.
 
Hi mchloe, welcome to CWE!

Med transitions are always tricky, so I recommend that you keep a journal as you do so to monitor how you are feeling. I'm on Lamictal now (I switched from Zonegran, not from Depakote however), and it basically works fine for me. The key with tapering onto Lamictal is "low and slow" -- small increments spread out over a good chunk of time. It may feel like it's taking forever, but it's safest that way.

Generally Lamictal is comparable to the newer AEDs in terms of safety during pregnancy. Its absorption can be negatively affected by high estrogen, so usually Lamictal levels need to be checked from time to time during the pregnancy to make sure they are sufficient.
 
Thanks for the support!! I am very glad I have found this group and decided to join. It is easier talking to people who understand what you are going through. :)
 
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