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| Will alcohol or street drugs bring on a seizure? |
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| You probably don’t want to risk more seizures, or jeopardize your treatment. But if you’re losing sleep or taking alcohol or drugs, you’re doing just that. By missing sleep, you may provoke seizures, so it’s vital to get plenty of rest. Alcohol can change the electrical activity in the brain and interact with your epilepsy medications. It’s true that 1 or 2 alcoholic drinks may not significantly make a difference. But it’s very easy for teens to misjudge their intake. Why would you take the chance? |
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| It should also go without saying that uppers (amphetamines), downers (barbiturates, benzodiazepines), heroin, certain painkillers, LSD (“acid”), PCP (“angel dust”), or “ecstasy” are not only illegal—but asking for trouble. They can bring on seizures or make them worse. In fact, crack and other forms of cocaine can cause seizures in people who have never had one before. Don’t be your own worst enemy. |
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| Is it OK for me to get a part-time job? |
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| Many people with epilepsy work steady jobs and go on to have successful careers. You could be one of those people too. It will depend on the type of seizures you have, and if they are under control, and the type of work that interests you. |
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| Can playing video games make me have a seizure? |
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| For most people with epilepsy, the answer is no. But, a small number of people with epilepsy can have a seizure when they see flashing lights. If you have this kind of epilepsy, then playing a video game could be a problem. Ask your doctor about this. |
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| Why does my doctor want me to take Keppra®? |
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| Many people who have epilepsy take Keppra®. When taken with another epilepsy medicine, Keppra® can help control certain types of seizures. |
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| Is Keppra® easy to use? |
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| Yes. It comes in both a tablet and a liquid form. Your doctor will tell you which one is right for you. You can take Keppra® with or without food. |
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| How many times a day do I take Keppra®? |
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| Keppra® is usually taken 2 times a day. But your doctor will tell you when you are supposed to take your medicine. Be sure to follow your parents’ and your doctor’s instructions. Take it at the same time each day. |
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| Are Keppra® tablets right for me? |
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| Teens can take Keppra® tablets or liquid. If you take the tablets, they should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew them. Some people have a hard time swallowing tablets. That’s why Keppra® comes in a liquid form. Talk to your doctor about whether the tablet or liquid form is right for you. |
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| Before you take Keppra®, you or your parents should look at the bottle. That way you can tell if you were given the right medicine. The bottle should say “Keppra®.” |
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| Make sure your medicine looks like this. |
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| Not shown at actual size. |
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