MSN: Study finds cost of brand-name epilepsy drugs nearly triples in eight years
UC expert says generic drugs typically are a safe, effective alternative
A new study found the cost for a year's supply of brand-name epilepsy drugs increased by 277% from 2010 to 2018, while the cost for a year's supply of generic epilepsy drugs decreased by 42% over the same time period.
Michael Privitera, MD, professor of neurology in the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and director of the Epilepsy Center at the UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute, commented on the study for an article published by United Press International and MSN.
Privitera said he and his colleagues have performed "rigorous studies" that found no clinically important differences between generic and name-brand versions of one anti-seizure medication, lamotrigine.
The main approach to lowering prices for patients is to use generic drugs whenever possible, Privitera said, but some patients' seizures are only controlled with particular drugs that do not have generic equivalents.
Read the MSN story, originally published by United Press International.
Featured photo at top courtesy of Unsplash.
Related Stories
Recent advances may speed time to endometriosis diagnosis
March 16, 2026
The average time to clinical diagnosis of endometriosis is nine years. Definitive diagnosis of the disease is difficult, and until recently, has relied on laparoscopic surgery. Now, as Medscape recently reported, novel clinical recommendations, advanced diagnostic tools and research into inflammation and immune responses, are bringing promise that women with endometriosis will find relief sooner and without surgery, according to experts, including Katie Burns, PhD, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine associate professor.
UC biologist talks about 'pearmageddon'
March 16, 2026
WLWT talks to UC biologist and Department Head Theresa Culley about invasive, nonnative Callery pear trees that are spreading across Ohio forests after they were introduced by landscapers more than 50 years ago.
Local media highlight completion of Blood Cancer Healing Center fourth and fifth floors
March 16, 2026
Local media including WLWT and the Cincinnati Business Courier highlighted the opening of research laboratories and the UC Osher Wellness Suite and Learning Kitchen at the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center’s Blood Cancer Healing Center.