A patient who has epilepsy will begin an anticonvulsant medication. The patient asks the nurse how long the medication will be necessary. How will the nurse respond?
a. "The medication is usually taken for a lifetime."
b. "The medication will be given until you are seizure-free."
c. "You will need to take the medication for 3 to 5 years."
d. "You will take the medication as needed for seizure activity."
ANS: A
Anticonvulsants are given to prevent seizures and are usually taken throughout the patient's lifetime. Stopping the medication will lead to recurrence of seizures in most patients. Some patients may attempt to stop taking the medications after 3 to 5 years of no seizure activity. Anticonvulsants are not given as needed.
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