Withdrawing an antiepileptic drug

Withdrawal of an antiepileptic drug should be gradual. Six weeks is usually sufficient, but up to 6 months may be preferred for a barbiturate or clonazepam. When withdrawing all antiepileptic drug therapy, see advice.

Driving is not permitted when the dose of an antiepileptic drug is being reduced, unless it is being reduced due to dose-related adverse effects and the dose reduction is unlikely to result in a seizure. Driving must not resume until 3 months after completing the dose reduction or withdrawal¹.