Any Problems From Use Of Antiepileptics And Low Rbc Anemia? | MyEpilepsyTeam

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Any Problems From Use Of Antiepileptics And Low Rbc Anemia?
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭

Just found out I am anemic, very low red blood cell count. The thoughts from Dr. is that chronic use of antiepileptics (40 years worth) is the cause. I hadn't been made aware of this possible side effect before.

posted December 27, 2022
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I agree. I have been on anticonvulsant medication since 1974 and I was told by my Neurologist that I would have to have blood work every 6 months until I turned 26. At age 27 I was told that since my seizures were controlled I could start getting blood work done annually unless my seizures returned. I was able to get this done by my primary doctor and asked him to share the bloodwork results with my Neurologist to save on the medical cost. I have learned that there are some things that have to be requested to be tested for in bloodwork such as testosterone levels. The Depakene that I was on depleted my naturally produced testosterone to the point I had to give myself weekly injections to fight off depression and fatique.

posted December 27, 2022
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Sorry to hear this Bob, i believe Anticonvulsant medication is a amazingly powerful tool, and blood counts etc should be vigorously checked on a regular basis.
I was on a medication for 30 years (now changed) i feel like its taken away part of my life....because i didn't have checks.

posted December 27, 2022
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I run my own landscape business. I started to feel tired at the end of the season and realized that my iron level was low. Started taking ferritin and it made a huge difference

posted December 29, 2022

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