Cultural Barriers to Medication Adherence in Epilepsy.

Antiepileptic drugs can prevent seizures in most patients; however, nonadherence is frequently reported. Nonadherence is associated with a higher incidence of emergency department visits, increased hospital admissions, and an increased risk of mortality. Misconceptions about epilepsy, level of education, and language barriers are contributors to nonadherence. Misconceptions about epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs are prevalent among economically disadvantaged predominantly minority persons with epilepsy. Educational interventions may improve adherence.