There is an increasing number of new AED formulations marketed and awaiting approval. Some of these are generic versions of marketed AEDs. Others are therapeutic substitutions, providing a new version of a branded drug. Patients and doctors need to understand the differences between immediate and long-acting formulations of a drug. They need to be advised of the particular issues in epilepsy when generics are substituted for branded medications. This section will address those issues, as well as the formulary/copay implications and various state “dispense as written” statutes.
There is an increasing number of new AED formulations marketed and awaiting approval. Some of these are generic versions of marketed AEDs. Others are therapeutic substitutions, providing a new version of a branded drug. Patients and doctors need to understand the differences between immediate and long-acting formulations of a drug. They need to be advised of the particular issues in epilepsy when generics are substituted for branded medications. This section will address those issues, as well as the formulary/copay implications and various state “dispense as written” statutes. 
