Taking Stock: Asking About Side Effects

Poor Memory

Memory difficulties can occur for many different reasons. In some people, memory problems may be related to use of certain medications, or to the effects of seizures. Having a seizure may result in memory gaps for the period immediately before it occurred. Having seizures over many years may also affect the memory area of the brain.

If memory difficulties suddenly developed following a change in medication, let your doctor know. Questions for your doctor might include:

• Is my poor memory being caused by my medication?
• Am I taking an inappropriate amount of medication? Or could I be taking it incorrectly?
• Could my medication's generic version eliminate this side effect?
• Could this be a sign of brain damage?
• Will my poor memory be permanent? Or might I experience lasting effects?

If it has been a concern for some time, it is more likely to be related to seizures. Check with your doctor. You may need memory testing to see what types of memory problems you are having. The results may help your doctor tailor your treatment and suggest ways to help you cope with memory difficulties.

Read about other possible side effects...