Calling Ottakee...

[sheryl]

Yes, Ottakee, we run the blood work. The syrup manages her seizures and the Lamictal manages her mood/behavior.

We were told to test once a year. How often does your neuro. suggest testing?

Yes, there is a safe "booster" range in which to work. We've had to do this a few times.

Sheryl

[Ottakee]

We do 11dd's Lamictal level every 6 months or so. We do 12dd's every 2-3 months as she is in the midst of puberty and on Tegretol which can really affect Lamictal. Basically, when I notice a problem, we do the test as I have a standing order for all of their blood work.

I think in general, our neuro would do it twice a year for a growing child (unless symptoms dictated more often) and then once a year when they are done growing.

The "range" for Lamcital at our lab is 1-4 (when draw 12 hours after the last dose and before the next one). My 11dd does fine about 3 while my 12dd does best with a level close to or just above 4.

[sheryl]

My dd's neuro said once a year. But, like you, I'm noticing some pre-puberty changes. It will be a year or so before she actually enters it though. We're not sure what to expect. We were told, as you mentioned earlier, that purberty can "effect" her epilepsy. We just don't know if that means worse or better. We're sure each child is different in how their brains handle it.

How are your girls doing overall? I don't recall if they are still spiking or having breakthroughs.....

I hope all is going well and you have a great homeschool year.

Sheryl