Last Updated on November 12, 2025
November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy and supporting the millions of Americans living with seizure disorders. According to the CDC, approximately 3.4 million Americans have active epilepsy—2.9 million adults and 470,000 children. For those managing epilepsy, anti-seizure medications are often essential for controlling seizures and maintaining quality of life—but the cost can be overwhelming.
The price of anti-seizure medications, particularly newer formulations and brand-name drugs, has become a significant barrier to care for many patients. Some people reduce their doses, skip medications, or go without treatment entirely due to cost. This is dangerous and can lead to breakthrough seizures, injuries, and serious complications. The good news? Financial assistance is available, and NeedyMeds is here to help you find it.
Understanding Your Options for Medication Assistance
NeedyMeds maintains a comprehensive, free database of assistance programs for epilepsy medications. Depending on the medication, you may find:
- Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): Programs offered by pharmaceutical manufacturers that provide free or low-cost medications to eligible patients
- Coupons and Discount Cards: Savings cards that can reduce your out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy
- Direct-to-Consumer Programs: Special programs that allow you to order medications directly at reduced prices
Anti-Seizure Medications with Available Assistance
Managing epilepsy often requires finding the right medication or combination of medications. Here are some commonly prescribed anti-seizure medications with robust assistance options:
Depakote ER (divalproex sodium extended-release) – PAPs, coupons, and direct-to-consumer programs available
Keppra (levetiracetam) – PAPs and direct-to-consumer programs available
Lamictal (lamotrigine) – PAPs, coupons, and direct-to-consumer programs available
Topamax (topiramate) – PAPs, coupons, and direct-to-consumer programs available
Beyond Medications: National Support Programs for Epilepsy
Unlike many chronic conditions, epilepsy support extends beyond just medication assistance. Several national organizations offer specialized programs to help with the unique challenges of living with seizure disorders:
Device and Service Animal Assistance:
- Chelsea Hutchison Foundation – Provides seizure-prediction devices and financial assistance for seizure-response dogs
- Danny Did Grant Program – Financial assistance for seizure-monitoring devices for qualified individuals
Career and Emergency Support:
- Epilepsy Reach Foundation – Career Readiness and Advancement – Professional development resources tailored for adults with epilepsy
- Epilepsy Reach Foundation – Emergency Medication Fund – Emergency assistance for anti-seizure medications
Comprehensive Support Services:
- Josh Provides Epilepsy Assistance Foundation – Multiple services for those affected by epilepsy (note: does not provide funding for anti-seizure medications)
The Complete Picture: Many More Resources Available
The programs highlighted above represent just a starting point. NeedyMeds’ database includes assistance information for a wide range of epilepsy treatments and support services. You can find diagnosis-specific programs by visiting needymeds.org/copay-diseases and searching for “epilepsy.” The search tool allows you to filter by:
- State and national programs
- Specific services offered
- Eligibility requirements
- And more
How to Find Help for Your Specific Medication
Finding assistance for your epilepsy medication is straightforward:
- Visit NeedyMeds.org
- Use the search function on the homepage to look up your specific medication
- Review the available programs, including eligibility requirements
- Apply directly through the program links provided
Each medication page includes detailed information about available programs, eligibility criteria, and application instructions.
Don’t Forget to Compare Cash Prices
Sometimes the cash price for a medication—especially with a discount card—can actually be lower than your insurance copay. Before filling your prescription, visit FindDrugPrices.com to compare cash-pay prices at pharmacies in your area using the drug discount card. This simple step could save you significant money.
This November, Take Action
National Epilepsy Awareness Month is the perfect time to review your medication costs and explore assistance options. Managing epilepsy is challenging enough without the added stress of medication costs or lacking access to vital support services like seizure-monitoring devices or career resources. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing epilepsy for years, help is available—and NeedyMeds is here to connect you with those resources.
Don’t let cost stand between you and the medications and services you need to stay healthy and safe. Visit NeedyMeds today and discover what assistance programs might be available for your epilepsy medications and support needs.
Resources:
- Search for any medication assistance: NeedyMeds.org
- Find epilepsy-specific programs: needymeds.org/copay-diseases
- Compare pharmacy prices: FindDrugPrices.com
