Media

Position Statement

Consistency of Supply (Brand versus generic)

Epilepsy Scotland believes people with epilepsy require consistency in the medication they receive. We know that some people who were given a different version of their usual drug have experienced other side-effects or are no longer seizure-free.

As patents expire for brand drugs, other companies can produce their own (generic) versions. Even slight variations in the way epilepsy drugs are made, including the amount of active and added ingredients, mean they can be less effective in controlling seizures. This has a huge impact on a person’s wellbeing. Unless a doctor states a brand on the prescription, the pharmacist can give any generic version of the drug

To avoid this situation:

Ask your GP to follow national SIGN guidelines and write the brand name of the epilepsy medication (eg Tegretol rather than carbamazepine) on your prescription
Check the packaging on the medication you are given is the same as normal
If you are given a different medication speak to your GP as soon as possible

See our treatment factsheet for more information. If you would like more information please call our freephone Helpline on 0808 800 2200.