[mark714]

My brother was born with epilepsy and later diagnosed with schizophrenia.
The med's he takes for both problems has worked for the past 6 years with no major problems. But just about 2 weeks ago he has started to act up again, and his balance is way off.He keeps falling down and walkiing into walls.

I wonder what is causing him to not have good balance? Only thing I can think of is he has lost 20lbs in about 2 months and wonder if he body weight has effected his medication intake.

[JudyKayTee]

Yes, his body weight is smaller and the medication might need to be adjusted.

This is a question, however, for HIS physician.

[DrBill100]

Changes in body weight, metabolism and even dietary intake can alter the psychotropic medications. However the behavioral changes should not be attributed to any factor(s) absent a complete re-evaluation by the attending physician and/or one with access to his complete medico-psychiatric history.

As Judy noted, that should be handled by his physician, and the sooner the better in light of the fact that the medication had been working over a long period. Given the previous success of controlling symptoms it is quite likely he can return to that state with some minor treatment modifications.

[mark714]

Thank you for your answers. All very insightful and helpful.
We called a family friend that specializes in epilepsy and schizophrenia and is a scientist in the medical field.he thinks that the reason why he is off balance and moves about the way he does on his feet , is all due to being way over medicated on his dilatin for his seizures and has nothing to do with his seroquil. Overtime after taking so many pills since he was 16 ( and now 38) your body can only handle so much. And taking 21 different pills a day for both problems, it's a miracle he is still on his feet and talkative.told him about how when he sleeps and night he talks out loud in full conversation,for long lenth's of time.He said that's a sign of a intelligent mind
And his intellect is battling his schizophrenia while he sleeps.and knowing my brother he was at a young age very smart. So that was a relief to know.

So after talking with him and my brother's doctor he thinks its best to take the some of the dilantin ( not all) away, and wait for 3 weeks or so and see if things improve.

I hope he does, for I am very concerned with his health
Thank you all for your suppport


Mark

[DrBill100]

Mark,

It seems that you have access to knowledgeable resources that are contributing to the attending physician. Very helpful!

Couldn't disagree with any of your foregoing conclusions.

My commendations for your attention to detail in caring for your brother.

[Texasdfw]

Balance is based off the inner ear usually, seems odd, but if your ears are off then your brain does not balance well.