Greetings... My brother is 17 years old andhe has (Myoclonus) for four years now and since that time he was taking (Depakine/Chrono500 mg) as a treatment. Since that there was no improvement and his jerky movement became more often especially when he get out of bed. The doctors precribed him other medicines (Keppra 500mg or Lamictal 25mg) but the thing that some of them are saying that the transition period between the old and new medication should be 2 weeks. Another group said that the transition should be gradually for 3 months. From your experience, which option is better and what are the possible side effects during the transition period?? . Another question, is it essential that he'll be under observation during this period? cuz if that's true he won't able to start college away from home. Appreciating your effort and hoping to hear from you soon.

When I'm being taken off of one and put on a new medicine, it's usually over a 7-10 day period (typically - depending on the dosage; I'd drop 25-100mg of the old one and gain 25-100mg of the new one). As far as getting used to the medication, I took several months to adjust to Keppra (it caused me to have mood swings) even a little bit and eventually had Lamictal added in which seemed to be a decent combo.

I don't know how severe his case is as far as observation goes, but if he's a fairly mature fella; just have him call his doctor (or you ) to report any changes in activity. Make sure you both know all side effects and keep an eye out for them as well as a rash.

Hope the new meds help out!

Hi,
When I was taken off of depakote I had to be admitted into the hospital and slowly go off the drug. Depakote is a very adictive drug and the Drs. wanted to monitor me while going off the drug and changing over to diamox. Later my epi wanted me to go on keppra but I told him no because it causes more moodiness and tempers for some people.
It took about 2-3 weeks for my body to get used to being off depakote and I had a lot of withdraw seizures which are no fun but it always happens each time I change AED's. Here's wishing your brother and you the best. May God Bless You Both!

Sue

Medicine I was taken off took about the same amount of time as Ellie's did. I then was put on Keppra (which took a while to get use too) and Lamital which I had no problem with. I am very happy with the two because they have help me extremly.

I didn't have much in the way of mood swings problems on Keppra.

Hope your brother has good luck with the medication.

Darlene