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Last year the FDA warned of increased suicide risk in patients treated with epilepsy drugs for bipolar disorder. But a new study finds fewer suicides in treated patients.
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Symptoms of Epilepsy and Seizures
Epilepsy Symptoms
Almost any type of behavior that happens repetitively may represent a seizure.
-
Generalized seizures: All areas of the brain (the cortex) are
involved in a generalized seizure. Sometimes these are referred to as grand mal
seizures.
- To the observer, the person experiencing such a seizure may cry out or make some sound, stiffen for some seconds, then have rhythmic movements of the arms and legs. Often the rhythmic movements slow before stopping.
- Eyes are generally open.
- The person may not appear to be breathing. The person is often breathing
deeply after an episode.
- The return to consciousness is gradual and should occur within a few
moments.
- Loss of urine is common.
- Often people will be confused briefly after a generalized seizure.
-
Partial or focal seizures: Only part of the brain is involved, so
only part of the body is affected. Depending on the part of the brain having
abnormal electrical activity, symptoms may vary.
- If the part of the brain controlling movement of the hand is involved, for
example, then perhaps only the hand may show rhythmic movements or
jerking.
- If other areas of the brain are involved, symptoms might include strange
sensations or small repetitive movements such as picking at clothes or lip
smacking.
- Sometimes the person with a partial seizure appears dazed or confused. This may represent a partial complex seizure. The term complex is used by doctors to describe a person who is between being fully alert and unconscious.
- If the part of the brain controlling movement of the hand is involved, for
example, then perhaps only the hand may show rhythmic movements or
jerking.
-
Absence or petit mal seizures: These are most common in
childhood.
- Impairment of consciousness is present with the person often staring
blankly.
- Repetitive blinking or other small movements may be present.
- Typically, these seizures are brief, lasting only seconds. Some people may
have many of these in a day.
- Other seizure types exist, particularly in very small children.
- Impairment of consciousness is present with the person often staring
blankly.
Important Safety Information
Vimpat (lacosamide) is a medicine that is used with other medicines to treat partial onset seizures in patients 17 years of age and older with epilepsy. Vimpat is generally well-tolerated, but may not be for everyone. Ask your doctor if Vimpat is right for you. Antiepileptic drugs, including Vimpat, may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self harm that you have never had before or may be worse than before. Please see additional patient information in the Medication Guide at the end of the full prescribing information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your condition or your treatment. Please see additional Patient Safety Information
