I use, successfully, two narrow spectrum drugs after brain surgery in Jan 2016. Lacosamide (Vimpat) & Dilantin have helped get 7 yrs 3 months seizure free. But Dilantin was invented in 1908. Is there a newer replacement for it?
The chemical structure was discovered in 1908 but it wasn't fully developed until 1936. It was probably only being trialed at this point so it wouldn't of been completely released until at least the late 40's. So Yes it's old but still very complex and it would of been more refined over the years. I was on Tegretol for 25 years which came out in the 70's before changing.
If the Dilantin is still keeping the seizures away, I wouldn’t fiddle with something that currently working. These drugs are not interchangeable, as you know, and sometimes they don’t make them like they used to. Have you asked your neurologist?
@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member You would have to speak to a Neurologist about it as you would need to make sure that whatever you go on is a better option and not going to be any worse. At the end of the day, All the meds will affect everyone differently so it can be a very complex process.
@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member - totally agree with you.
JackLaverty - I have a little bit of knowledge in biochemistry, physiology & biophysics. So I understand your comments. Although I only began Dilantin in 2016, my curiosity stems from comments from others that used it much longer & enjoyed more it's replacement. Plus - the time difference between the discovery of a new AED & it's usage always requires tests. Vimpat was invented in 1996 & was approved for epilepsy treatment in 2008. I hope your fight against epilepsy goes as successfully as mine does. Best wishes.