What is a common reason for poor adherence to antiseizure medications after discharge?

• A. Forgetting doses, side effects, cost, complex dosing regimens, and lack of education
• B. High health literacy and consistent follow-up
• C. Side effects leading to discontinuation alone
• D. Adherence is not a concern after discharge

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that tolerability drives whether patients keep taking antiseizure meds after discharge. Many antiseizure drugs cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, cognitive slowing, mood changes, or GI upset. When these effects are noticeable after leaving the hospital, patients may decide the medication isn’t worth the disruption to daily life and stop taking it, especially if they lack timely guidance on how to manage them. Providing clear education about what side effects to expect, how long they may last, and when to contact a clinician, along with gradual dose titration and follow-up, helps patients stay on therapy and reduce seizure risk. While forgetting doses or cost can contribute, side effects that lead to discontinuation are a common and pivotal barrier to adherence.