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

1

Tariff troubles for online shoppers

December 16, 2025

This year’s new regulations on tariffs and customs are leaving holiday shoppers with unexpected fees on some of their purchases, according to recent reporting by WLWT. Associate Dean of Impact and Partnerships for the University of Cincinnati’s Lindner College of Business Charles Sox spoke to WLWT about why shoppers are only just now feeling the impact, despite these policies being in effect for months.

2

Limited IT support offered during winter season days

December 16, 2025

The IT Service Desk, powered by Digital Technology Solutions (DTS), will be closed from Wednesday, Dec. 24, through Thursday, Jan. 1, during the university’s Winter Season Days closure. The Service Desk will resume normal operations Friday, Jan. 2.