Epilepsy is a condition that cannot be treated across the counter. The doctor will first need to make a diagnosis. This means that they will conclude what condition you have. Once the doctor has diagnosed you with epilepsy, you will need to be treated with Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs). AEDs are tablets which are taken daily as prescribed by the doctor. Seven out of ten people that make use of AEDs, become seizure free; the other three out of ten may still experience seizures though in reduced numbers.

Typically a doctor will not prescribe any treatment after a single seizure, at least two seizures are considered necessary. When seizures are very rare, the doctor may question the necessity of the treatment. It is a matter of weighing the challenges with your seizures against the challenges of the treatment (such as the costs and side-effects of the drugs).

To stay healthy, you need to continue the treatment until the doctor suggests a change. The Anti-Epileptic Drugs do not cure the epilepsy but can control the seizures for as long as you take them. This means that if you stop the treatment without doctor's consent, it may bring back the seizures and even make them worse.

Usually the consultation and the drugs in public hospitals in Kenya do not cost more than Ksh 300 per month (Ksh 100 for consult and Ksh 200 for the drugs).

10 rules for your treatment:

1. Inform your doctor if you still have seizures despite the intake of your drugs
2. Do not experiment with your drugs, your doctor needs to guide the changes
3. Tell your doctor if you have any doubts about your prescription
4. Don�t stop drugs suddenly, even if you do not have seizures anymore, consult your doctor first!
5. Remember to take your drugs in time, ask your doctor what to do if you forget
6. Use a medicine box if you find it hard to remember taking medication.
7. Tell your doctor if side effects occur. Sometimes, changes can be made
8. Plan ahead so you do not run out of drugs, always take drugs with you
9. Diarrhea and vomiting may affect the absorption of medication. If you throw up shortly after taking the medication take another dose. Consult your doctor if vomiting continues.
10. If you are planning to get pregnant, discuss it with your doctor in case any changes on your treatment need to be made