Klonopin and Monotherapy

[bill34102]

I have an idopathic seizure disorder for 35 years without seizure for 28 years.  I have never had an abnormal EEG, CAT, CT, MRI or PET of the Brain.  
I was on Dilantin for over  30 years and transitioned to Lamictal 4  months ago however developed rash and had to be dc'd.
                                                                                                                            
I have been on small dose of Klonopin and Paxil 37.5 CR for a few  years to manage general anxiety and panic disorder.
My Neurologist has increases my Klonopin to 4 mg QD  and ordered repeat eeg in 2 weeks,
Do you think that Klonopin can be an effective drug (safety) net for seizure disoder. ?

Thanks, Bill

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

Klonopin is not primarily prescribed for seizure control in most parts of the world. It has a good ability to control acute seizures, but long term prevention has some problems. The drug loses its effect in the long run. I think you are receiving klonopin as an add-on to paxil.

On the other hand, you are seizure-free for a long time. It is very rare indeed for the seizures to return. You will have to avoid triggers. Dilantin also has its own side effect profile.

You can discuss with your neurologist about your chances of getting a seizure in the future. I would say, they are minimal.

Regards

[wildcolonialboy]

I too had a "breakthrough" seizure while on Dilantin after being seizure free for 16 years. Like you had all the tests---all negative.MDs not sure why this happened, obviously I'm very frustrated. Could your seizure be indicative of some other underlying problem, ie. MS or an autoimmune disease. I too have started taking Lamictal. I'm worried about another event.