Taking a medication history can provide useful information. Noncompliance with AEDs can decrease patients' seizure threshold and lead to increased frequency or severity of seizures. This seemingly simple concept should be clearly stated to both newly diagnosed and long-time epileptic patients. Do not ever assume that patients are adequately informed about their AEDs. It is important to investigate the reasons for noncompliance without being judgmental.
Simple forgetfulness is a common reason for noncompliance.
Noncompliance may be due to side effects associated with AEDs, such as impotence and constipation, that patients may be embarrassed to mention. Other reasons for noncompliance are costs of medications, inconvenient dosing schedules, or denial of the need for medications. Always allow adequate time to gather appropriate information. During this time it is also important to observe family dynamics. Keep in mind that chronic conditions such as epilepsy can place an incredible emotional and financial strain on families.