How do you balance effective epilepsy meds with long-term side effects?

[AubreyPH]

My sister was recently diagnosed with epilepsy, and her neurologist outlined several epilepsy treatment options starting with medication. The information was a lot to take in at once. For those managing this long-term, how do you navigate the balance between finding an effective medication and dealing with the side effects? Is it common to try a few different ones before settling on a regimen?