Alternative Treatments for Epilepsy

^{Reviewed by: My Child Without Limits Advisory Committee September 2009}

Researchers are studying whether biofeedback -- a strategy in which individuals learn to control their own brain waves -- may be useful in controlling seizures. However, this type of therapy is controversial and most studies have shown discouraging results.

Taking large doses of vitamins generally does not help a person's seizures and may even be harmful in some cases. But a good diet and some vitamin supplements, particularly folic acid, may help reduce some birth defects and medication-related nutritional deficiencies.

Use of non-vitamin supplements such as melatonin is controversial and can be risky. One study showed that melatonin might reduce seizures in some children, while another found that the risk of seizures increased measurably with melatonin. Most non-vitamin supplements, like those found in health food stores are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so their true effects and their interactions with other drugs are largely unknown.

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How Does Epilepsy Affect Daily Life?

Download the Introduction to Epilepsy.