One of the first things every Person With Epilepsy (PWE) learns after diagnosis is an unavoidable truth: from this point forward, their life is, in many ways, at the mercy of Anti-Seizure Drugs (ASDs). To a PWE, these medications are not just pills—they are the fine line between safety and danger, the difference between normalcy and disruption, and often, between life and death. For most PWEs, this reality remains constant for the rest of their lives. It is an unfortunate and sobering truth, one no one chooses, yet must accept as part of living with epilepsy.
But here is the hope: ASDs work. When taken consistently and under proper clinical supervision, they are highly effective at preventing seizures. While adherence to medication may feel like a relentless obligation—day after day, week after week, year after year—the benefits are undeniable. Take Isaac Salira, the founder of Seizure Support (SS), as an example. With diligent adherence to his prescribed ASDs, he has now gone almost six years without a single seizure. This remarkable outcome highlights just how powerful these medications can be when used consistently.
ASDs are more than a routine; they are a PWE’s constant companion. They require vigilance, discipline, and awareness. Missing doses or failing to follow medical guidance can have serious consequences, which is why education and support are so crucial. Understanding the role of ASDs, recognizing side effects, and knowing how to manage them safely are all essential skills for PWEs and their families.
Even for those who are not PWEs, supporting awareness and education about ASDs is invaluable. By advocating for access, sharing resources, and promoting understanding, non-PWEs can play a vital role in helping epilepsy communities thrive. Every effort, whether taking part in our GEF forum or supporting our other initiatives, contributes to a world where epilepsy is better understood, better managed, and less isolating.
Anti-Seizure Drugs may be a lifelong commitment, but they are a commitment worth making. For PWEs, they are not just medication—they are hope, safety, and the promise of a life where seizures are controlled and dreams are not limited by the condition.
This issue is discussed in detail in the Epilepsy Management Guide, which you can download for free. To participate in the discussion on this topic, visit the Global Epilepsy Forum. To know more about what we do, please click HERE. We also have a donation page where those who feel compelled can give whatever they can afford by clicking HERE.
