• its preparation (e.g. tablet, capsule, or liquid);

• the method of administration;

• the dosage regime;

• its possible interactions with drugs bought over the counter in chemist’s shops as well as with other prescribed drugs; and

• its side-effects.

Advice is also given regarding what to do about doses which are forgotten, missed, or vomited.

Written information is in addition to, rather than a substitute for, oral advice. Patients often do not remember, or may misunderstand, much of what is said to them by doctors in a busy hospital clinic or surgery. This is particularly relevant with regard to adverse events or side-effects. Unexpected side-effects may distress or annoy patients (and their families) and thus adversely affect whether they will continue to take the drug, with its potential benefits. Patients should also be warned that different, or additional drugs may be needed depending on the specific epilepsy syndrome and their initial response to treatment. Well-informed patients and families are more likely to use their drugs with discretion and obtain the benefits which modern drugs can offer.

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